RADICULOPATHY
Radiculopathy occurs when a spinal nerve root is irritated or compressed. It can cause pain traveling into an arm or leg, numbness, tingling or weakness. An assessment helps distinguish a nerve-root problem from other causes of similar symptoms.
A herniated disc, bone spurs or narrowing around a nerve root can contribute to radiculopathy. Treatment depends on the cause and the examination findings. See Johns Hopkins Medicine’s overview.
Cervical radiculopathy affects a nerve root in the neck. Symptoms may travel into the shoulder, arm or hand. See our pinched-nerve guide.
Thoracic radiculopathy affects the mid-back and may cause pain wrapping around the torso. Chest pain should not be assumed to come from the spine; new or severe chest pain needs urgent medical assessment.
Lumbar radiculopathy affects a nerve root in the lower back and may cause symptoms into the buttock, leg or foot. Sciatica describes a pattern of leg symptoms; it is not itself the cause of nerve compression.
Age-related spinal changes or injury can contribute. Age, posture or a scan alone cannot establish the diagnosis. Tell your clinician about the onset, pattern and progression of symptoms.
Seek emergency care for new bladder or bowel dysfunction, groin numbness or loss of feeling in the legs. New or worsening weakness or difficulty walking needs prompt medical assessment. Do not wait for a routine appointment for these symptoms.
Many cases of cervical radiculopathy improve without surgery, but persistent or worsening symptoms may require specialist treatment. AAOS describes treatment options such as physical therapy and clinician-directed medication. Chiropractic care and nonsurgical decompression cannot guarantee recovery or prevent surgery.
For a routine assessment, view booking options or call 704-461-1836.