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What is Radiculopathy?

Radiculopathy occurs when a nerve root in the spinal column becomes compressed or irritated, leading to symptoms that vary based on the location of the nerve compression. Radiculopathy can affect the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), or lumbar (lower back) regions of the spine. When the nerve roots are compressed, they can cause pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness that radiates into the arms or legs. This condition is often caused by degenerative changes in the spine, such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or osteoarthritis, but can also result from trauma or injury.

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Symptoms of Radiculopathy

The symptoms of radiculopathy vary depending on which part of the spine is affected:

  • Cervical Radiculopathy (Neck): Pain, numbness, or tingling in the neck, shoulders, arms, or hands. Weakness in the arms or hands may also occur.
  • Lumbar Radiculopathy (Lower Back): Pain, numbness, or tingling in the lower back, buttocks, legs, or feet. When symptoms affect the sciatic nerve, it is commonly referred to as sciatica.

Common symptoms of radiculopathy include:

  • Sharp, shooting pain radiating from the spine to other parts of the body
  • Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
  • Weakness in muscles controlled by the affected nerve
  • Difficulty performing everyday activities like walking or holding objects

Causes of Radiculopathy

Radiculopathy is most commonly caused by the following:

Herniated Discs

When the soft material inside a spinal disc pushes out and compresses a nerve root.

Spinal Stenosis

Narrowing of the spinal canal or nerve openings, which compresses the nerve roots.

Degenerative Disc Disease

Age-related wear and tear on spinal discs, which leads to nerve compression.

Bone Spurs

Overgrowth of bone in the spine due to arthritis can press on nerves.

Injury or Trauma

Accidents or sudden injury to the spine can damage or compress the nerve roots.

Diagnosis of Radiculopathy

To diagnose radiculopathy, our experienced team will conduct a thorough physical exam and review your medical history. Diagnostic steps may include:

  • Physical Examination: Testing reflexes, strength, and range of motion to assess nerve compression.
  • Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans may be used to identify the root cause of nerve compression, such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or bone spurs.
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Treatment for Radiculopathy

At Gerling Spine Care NJ, we offer a range of treatment options for radiculopathy. Our approach is personalized to meet each patient's specific needs, with an emphasis on the most effective and least invasive treatments for symptom relief.

Conservative Treatments

For many patients, non-surgical treatments are effective in relieving radiculopathy symptoms:

  • Physical Therapy: Strengthening and stretching exercises that help alleviate pressure on the nerves and improve mobility.
  • Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, or nerve pain medications to manage pain and inflammation.
  • Epidural Steroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections reduce inflammation around the affected nerve and offer relief from pain and swelling.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Weight management, proper posture, and avoiding activities that worsen symptoms can significantly improve outcomes.

Surgical Treatments

If conservative treatments do not provide sufficient relief, or if radiculopathy causes significant weakness or limitations in daily activities, surgery may be considered. Surgical options include:

  • Discectomy: Removal of the herniated or damaged portion of a disc to relieve pressure on the nerve root.
  • Laminectomy: Removal of part of the vertebra (the lamina) to create more space in the spinal canal and reduce nerve compression.
  • Spinal Fusion: In cases of spinal instability, fusion surgery may be recommended to stabilize the affected part of the spine after decompression.

Minimally Invasive Options

We offer minimally invasive techniques when appropriate, which involve smaller incisions, less muscle disruption, and faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.

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Why Choose Gerling Spine Care NJ?

At Gerling Spine Care NJ, we are leaders in the treatment of spine conditions, including radiculopathy. Our team, led by Dr. Michael Gerling, combines advanced diagnostic techniques with personalized treatment plans to achieve the best possible outcomes for our patients.

Whether you are suffering from neck or back pain due to radiculopathy, our goal is to help you regain a pain-free and active lifestyle. We provide compassionate care, cutting-edge treatments, and a comprehensive approach to spine health. From initial diagnosis to recovery, we are here to support you every step of the way. If you're experiencing symptoms of radiculopathy, don't wait. Contact Gerling Spine Care NJ today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward finding relief.

Our Locations

Gerling Spinecare & Research Institute consists of NY Orthopedics & Gerling Institute NJ. Two practices, one standard of excellence.

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We're here to help you move forward.

Relief starts with quality orthopedic care. Contact us today to take the next step toward a more active, pain-free life.

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