Radiculopathy
How irritation or compression of a spinal nerve root can affect an arm, the trunk, or a leg.
Request My ConsultationUnderstanding radiculopathy
Nerve roots branch from the spine to carry signals between the nervous system and the body. Radiculopathy describes symptoms caused by an affected root. Cervical radiculopathy involves the neck; lumbar radiculopathy involves the lower back.
Common symptoms
- Pain traveling into an arm or leg, depending on the affected level.
- Tingling, numbness, or weakness in a nerve-root pattern.
- Less commonly, pain wrapping around the chest or trunk with a thoracic nerve-root problem.
What can cause it?
Disc herniation, bone spurs, and narrowing around a nerve root can cause irritation or compression. Radiculopathy differs from myelopathy, which affects spinal cord function, and from a peripheral nerve problem farther from the spine.
How it is evaluated
The examination checks muscle strength, sensation, and reflexes. MRI may help identify the affected level. Electrical nerve testing is sometimes used when the source is unclear. Findings should match the symptoms before a procedure is considered.
Treatment considerations
These are general educational options. A consultation helps determine what is appropriate for your diagnosis and health.
Explore neck conditions →Questions for your visit
- Which nerve root is affected, and do the scan and examination agree?
- How will we monitor weakness or other changes in nerve function?
Sources and further reading
This guide is educational and does not replace an individual medical evaluation.
Bring your questions. Understand your options.
Talk with a member of our team about your symptoms and next steps.