Radiculopathy occurs when a spinal nerve root becomes compressed or irritated as it exits the spine. Cervical radiculopathy affects nerves in the neck and causes symptoms in the shoulder, arm, or hand. Lumbar radiculopathy affects nerves in the lower back and causes symptoms in the buttock, leg, or foot.
This condition is commonly caused by herniated discs, bone spurs, or spinal stenosis. The resulting symptoms follow a predictable pattern based on which nerve root is involved.
Symptoms of Cervical/Lumbar Radiculopathy
Cervical radiculopathy typically causes pain that radiates from the neck into the shoulder, arm, or hand. Patients often describe burning or electric sensations. Numbness, tingling, and weakness may affect specific areas depending on which nerve is compressed.
Lumbar radiculopathy produces pain that travels from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg. Sciatica is a common form of lumbar radiculopathy. Symptoms may include difficulty lifting the foot, numbness along the outer leg, or weakness when pushing off while walking.
What Causes Cervical/Lumbar Radiculopathy?
The most common causes are herniated discs and degenerative changes in the spine. A herniated disc can press directly on a nerve root. Bone spurs from arthritis can narrow the openings where nerves exit the spine.
Spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, and thickened ligaments can also compress nerve roots. Less common causes include spinal tumors, infections, and diabetes related nerve damage. Risk increases with age as degenerative changes accumulate.
Our Diagnosis Approach to Cervical/Lumbar Radiculopathy
Dr. Sperzel will perform a detailed neurological examination to identify which nerve root is affected based on the pattern of weakness, numbness, and reflex changes. Your description of where symptoms travel is an important diagnostic clue.
MRI is typically used to visualize the spine and identify structural causes of nerve compression. Electrodiagnostic studies such as EMG and nerve conduction tests may be helpful in certain cases to assess nerve function and confirm the diagnosis.
Evidence-Based Treatments
Many patients improve with conservative treatment including physical therapy, oral medications, and activity modification. Therapy focuses on relieving nerve tension, improving posture, and strengthening supporting muscles.
Epidural steroid injections can reduce inflammation around the compressed nerve root and provide significant relief. For patients with persistent symptoms despite conservative care, Dr. Sperzel will discuss additional treatment options based on the underlying cause and severity of nerve compression.
When to Seek Care
Seek evaluation if arm or leg pain persists for more than a few weeks, is accompanied by progressive weakness or numbness, or significantly limits your daily activities. Early treatment can help prevent long term nerve damage.
Seek immediate care if you experience sudden severe weakness, loss of coordination, difficulty walking, or changes in bowel or bladder function. These symptoms require urgent evaluation.
