Radiculopathy
Definition:
Is a condition characterized by pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that radiates from the neck down into the arm(s) and sometimes into the hand(s). This condition typically arises from compression or irritation of the nerve roots exiting the cervical spine (neck region).
Principal causes:
Herniated Discs: One of the most common causes of radiculopathy is a herniated disc. When the soft inner material of a spinal disc protrudes through its tough outer layer, it can press on nearby nerve roots, leading to symptoms of radiculopathy.
Spinal Stenosis: Is a condition characterized by the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can compress the nerve roots as they exit the spinal column. This compression can lead to radiculopathy symptoms.
Degenerative Disc Disease: Degenerative changes in the spinal discs, such as loss of disc height and disc dehydration, can contribute to the development of radiculopathy. These changes may lead to disc bulging or herniation, which can compress nerve roots.
Bone Spurs (Osteophytes): Overgrowth of bone, known as bone spurs or osteophytes, can occur in the spinal column due to degenerative changes. These bone spurs can impinge on nerve roots, causing radiculopathy symptoms.
Spondylolisthesis: Is a condition where one vertebra slips forward or backward relative to the adjacent vertebrae. This displacement can compress nerve roots and lead to radiculopathy symptoms.
Trauma or Injury: Injuries to the spine, such as fractures or dislocations, can cause damage to the spinal nerves, leading to radiculopathy.
Tumors or Growths: Tumors or abnormal growths within or near the spinal canal can compress nerve roots and cause radiculopathy symptoms. These tumors may be primary (originating within the spinal column) or metastatic (spreading from other parts of the body).
Inflammatory Conditions: Inflammatory disorders such as arthritis or autoimmune diseases can cause inflammation and swelling around the nerve roots, leading to radiculopathy symptoms.
Infections: Infections of the spine or surrounding tissues, such as spinal epidural abscess or vertebral osteomyelitis, can cause compression of nerve roots and result in radiculopathy.
Repetitive Stress or Overuse: Activities or occupations that involve repetitive movements or prolonged sitting can contribute to the development of radiculopathy over time, especially if they put strain on the spine.
Symptoms:
Herniated disc: When the gel-like material within a spinal disc protrudes and presses against a nerve root in the cervical spine.
Degenerative changes: Wear and tear of the cervical spine over time, such as osteoarthritis or bone spurs, can lead to compression of nerve roots.
Cervical stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck, often due to degenerative changes, can cause compression of nerve roots.
Trauma or injury: Accidents, falls, or repetitive movements that strain the neck can lead to nerve compression and symptoms of cervical radiculopathy.
Infections or tumors: Less commonly, infections or growths in the cervical spine can cause nerve compression and symptoms.
Neck pain: Pain in the neck that may radiate into the shoulder, arm, or hand, typically following a specific nerve pathway.
Numbness or tingling: Sensations of numbness or tingling in the arm(s) or hand(s) corresponding to the affected nerve(s).
Weakness: Muscle weakness in the arm(s) or hand(s), which may affect grip strength or fine motor skills.
Radiating pain: Sharp or shooting pain that travels from the neck down into the arm(s) or hand(s), often exacerbated by certain movements or positions.
Our Treatment as a EvivaPHYSIO:
Physical therapy: Specific exercises and stretches to improve cervical spine mobility, strengthen supportive muscles, and relieve pressure on nerve roots.
Rest and activity modification: Avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms and practicing good posture and body mechanics to reduce strain on the neck.
The prognosis for cervical radiculopathy depends on various factors, including the underlying cause, severity of symptoms, and response to treatment. In many cases, symptoms improve with conservative measures and self-care strategies. However, it is important to seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen, or if they are accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as weakness, loss of bowel or bladder control, or difficulty walking. Early intervention and appropriate management can help alleviate pain, improve function, and prevent long-term complications.