Radiculopathy

Radiculopathy is a condition due to a compressed nerve in the spine that can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness along the course of the nerve. Radiculopathy can occur in any part of the spine, but it is most common in the lower back (lumbar radiculopathy) and in the neck (cervical radiculopathy). It is less commonly found in the middle portion of the spine (thoracic radiculopathy).

What Causes Radiculopathy?

Radiculopathy is caused by compression or irritation of the nerves as they exit the spine. This can be due to mechanical compression of the nerve by a disk herniation, a bone spur (osteophytes) from osteoarthritis, or from thickening of surrounding ligaments. Other less common causes of mechanical compression of the nerves is from a tumor or infection. Either of these can reduce the amount of space in the spinal canal and compress the exiting nerve. Scoliosis can cause the nerves on one side of the spine to become compressed by the abnormal curve of the spine. Still other causes of radiculopathy include diabetes which can decrease the normal blood flow to the spinal nerves and inflammation from trauma or degeneration can lead to radiculopathy from direct irritation of the nerves.

How Is Radiculopathy Treated?

At Pain Care Specialists of Oregon, we know how to treat radiculopathy. Our multidisciplinary approach incorporates state-of-the-art medical technology and the finest healthcare expertise to return you to a pain-free and active lifestyle. Our doctors and staff specialize in treating pain and the disorders that cause pain. We are experts in rehabilitation and will help you learn how you can help yourself recover from a radiculopathy. Pain Care Specialists of Oregon will diagnose and treat it using cutting-edge technology and the finest medical attention. With the help of an X-ray machine, a physician injects steroid medication between the bones of the spine adjacent to the involved nerves. This can help to rapidly reduce the inflammation and irritation of the nerve and help reduce the symptoms of radiculopathy.

If you have been diagnosed with radiculopathy, please contact us so we can help treat and manage your pain and get you some relief.