Radiculopathy, a Chronic and Painful Condition

Radiculopathy is a general term for chronic injuries that result from the vertebrae (the bones of the spine) or the cushioning discs between the vertebrae compressing the root of a nerve in the spinal column. It is most common in the neck (cervical radiculopathy) and lower back (lumbar radiculopathy). Even though the compression occurs at the root of the nerve, the symptoms of radiculopathy may be felt all the way to the tips of fingers or toes. Common symptoms include numbness, tingling, weakness, loss of motor function, and radiating pain. Radiculopathy symptoms felt in the arms and hands are most likely cervical in origin while those in the back of the leg and the foot are signs of lumbar radiculopathy.

Radiculopathy Can be Avoided – or Treated

Repetitive or stressful physical activities are common causes of radiculopathy – Jobs that involve repetitive motions or heavy lifting, for example. Lack of proper blood flow and progressive disease can also lead to radiculopathy. A genetic predisposition and the presence of other spine disorders also increase one’s risk of developing spinal radiculopathy. Degenerative disc disease resulting from the normal aging process can also cause this condition. Effective radiculopathy treatment options include physical therapy, medication, and relaxation. Minimally invasive surgery such as endoscopic procedures and laser spine surgery performed on an out-patient basis can be effective treatment options, minimizing risks associated with more invasive forms of spinal surgery. The board certified orthopedic surgeons at New Jersey Spine Specialists have successfully treated many patients from across the country and throughout northern New Jersey for spinal radiculopathy, and have extensive experience performing minimally invasive spinal surgery. If you live in Nutley, Union, Millburn, New Providence, Berkeley Heights, or anywhere in the region and are looking for effective, state-of-the-art solutions for a spinal problem, call us today to schedule a consultation with a NJ based spine surgeon near you at our office in Summit or Montclair.

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