It can be very painful to suffer from pinched nerve symptoms. Radiculopathy is the general name of this condition. It refers to any kind of pinched nerve root that originates in the spine. The nerve roots travel away from a spine to a variety of spots in the body. This means that you may feel pain in the spinal region. Or it might travel to other parts of the body. There are different pinched nerve symptoms and names for the condition depending where on the spine it occurs. The different types include lumbar radiculopathy, cervical radiculopathy, and thoracic radiculopathy. 

The pain from these conditions happens when the nerve gets irritated. This irritation can happen because of pressure, pinching, or irritation from inflamed tissue. It can also happen because of a herniated or bulged disc. Some other contributing factors of this condition could include spinal arthritis, diabetes, scoliosis, sciatica, bone spurs, a bone tumor, spinal stenosis, and compression fractures. Symptoms include pain, weakness, numbness, and tingling. The symptoms feel different depending  on where on the spine the nerve originates. You might feel pain near the spine. Or it could travel down the arms or legs. It could also occur in the ribs, side, or abdomen. 

People who sit or drive a lot are at greater risk for radiculopathy. This is because long periods of sitting compresses the discs. This can cause herniation and irritate nerve roots. Other risk factors include pregnancy, smoking, performing lots of heavy lifting, and a chronic cough. Men are also more likely to suffer from pinched nerves than women.

Doctors Use EMG/NCS Testing to Diagnose Radiculopathy

A doctor may utilize several methods to properly diagnose radiculopathy. They will start with a physical exam and tests to check muscle strength and reflexes. A doctor then may order EMG/NCS testing, an x-ray, CT scan, or MRI.  Most cases improve with physical therapy, positioning aids, and injections.  Only a few people need surgery.

Contact us if you need testing for pinched nerves!