Radiculopathy

Radiculopathy

Radiculopathy refers to a condition where a spinal nerve root becomes compressed, inflamed, or irritated, leading to pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness radiating along the course of the affected nerve. It can occur in the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), or lumbar (lower back) regions, with lumbar and cervical radiculopathy being the most common.

At our center, we specialize in the accurate diagnosis and multidisciplinary management of radiculopathy to relieve pain, restore nerve function, and improve quality of life. Our approach combines medical management, physiotherapy, interventional procedures, and rehabilitation for optimal recovery.


Our Approach

We focus on both symptom relief and treating the underlying cause of nerve compression. Our approach includes:

  • Detailed neurological and musculoskeletal assessment

  • Diagnostic imaging (MRI, CT, or EMG nerve conduction studies)

  • Identification of structural and functional contributors (disc herniation, spinal stenosis, etc.)

  • Personalized, stepwise treatment combining conservative and interventional options


Symptoms We Manage

Radiculopathy symptoms vary depending on the affected spinal region, including:

Cervical (Neck) Radiculopathy

  • Neck pain radiating to the shoulder, arm, or hand

  • Numbness or tingling in fingers

  • Muscle weakness in the upper limb

  • Reduced neck movement

Lumbar (Lower Back) Radiculopathy

  • Low back pain radiating to the buttocks, thighs, or legs (sciatica)

  • Tingling, numbness, or burning sensation in legs or feet

  • Weakness in leg or foot muscles

  • Pain that worsens with sitting, bending, or coughing

Thoracic (Mid-Back) Radiculopathy

  • Pain radiating around the ribs or chest wall

  • Sensory changes or tingling in the torso


Common Causes

  • Herniated or bulging intervertebral discs

  • Degenerative disc disease or spondylosis

  • Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)

  • Bone spurs or osteophyte formation

  • Trauma or spinal injury

  • Diabetes-related nerve inflammation

  • Post-surgical scar tissue or nerve entrapment


Treatment Options

Medical Management

  • Anti-inflammatory medications and pain relievers

  • Muscle relaxants for associated spasms

  • Neuropathic pain medications (e.g., pregabalin, gabapentin)

  • Short courses of corticosteroids to reduce nerve inflammation

Interventional Pain Management

  • Epidural steroid injections (lumbar or cervical) for targeted inflammation control

  • Selective nerve root blocks for diagnostic and therapeutic relief

  • Radiofrequency ablation in chronic or recurrent cases

  • Image-guided minimally invasive procedures for disc-related compression

Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation

  • Posture correction and spinal alignment exercises

  • Nerve mobilization and decompression therapy

  • Core strengthening and flexibility training

  • Traction therapy for mechanical nerve relief

  • Ergonomic education and workplace modifications

Surgical Management (for Severe or Resistant Cases)

  • Microdiscectomy or laminectomy for nerve decompression

  • Spinal fusion or stabilization if structural instability is present

  • Minimally invasive spine surgery options as per individual assessment


Lifestyle and Preventive Care

  • Regular physical activity and stretching to maintain spinal health

  • Weight management to reduce spinal stress

  • Correct ergonomic posture during sitting, lifting, and working

  • Avoidance of prolonged inactivity or repetitive strain

  • Regular follow-ups for monitoring nerve recovery and spine condition


Our Multidisciplinary Radiculopathy Care Team

Our integrated care model brings together:

  • Neurologists and spine specialists

  • Orthopedic surgeons and pain management experts

  • Physiotherapists trained in spinal and nerve rehabilitation

  • Occupational therapists for ergonomic guidance

  • Radiologists for precision diagnosis and guided interventions

This team-based approach ensures comprehensive, individualized, and evidence-based care for every patient.


Goals of Radiculopathy Management

Our objectives are to:

  • Relieve pain and nerve irritation

  • Restore normal sensation and strength

  • Prevent further nerve or spinal damage

  • Improve posture, mobility, and daily functioning

  • Enhance long-term spinal health and quality of life