The human spine consists of numerous bones known as the vertebrae. The spinal cord runs down a canal that is located deep in the center of these bones. From the spinal cord emanates nerve roots that extend to individual vertebrae.

When these nerve roots get affected, the condition is known as radiculopathy. Unfortunately, many patients suffer from chronic radiculopathy as they choose conventional medicine. Research shows patients who use the chiropractic approach heal much faster.

The chiropractic approach to radiculopathy works by identifying the exact problem, then seeking the most appropriate treatment options. Treatment options are often paired with other curative measures, including;

  • Targeted stretching and exercise
  • Soft tissue massage
  • Ice
  • Electrical muscle stimulation

Key Facts About Radiculopathy

While most people disregard back pain, in some cases, the cause of this back pain could be radiculopathy.

Research shows radiculopathy is a common occurrence especially in people aged 50 and above. However, you may suffer from radiculopathy and not experience much of the aforementioned back pain. That is why it is imperative to have a specialist check you whether you are having back pain or not.

With regular professional check-ups, you’ll be able to catch the condition early on. This means you can take both preventative and curative measures to combat the noxious condition.

If you do not experience regular back pain or any of the other radiculopathy symptoms, you can schedule a check-up session twice or thrice every year. However, if you are experiencing back pain, you should seek professional advice as soon as possible.

What Causes Radiculopathy?

This condition is caused by the irritation or compression of the nerves when exiting the spine. This condition is mostly caused by excessive mechanical compression of these nerves by disc herniation or bone spurs.

While rare, radiculopathy can be caused by infections such as tumors that compress the nerves.

Common Radiculopathy Symptoms

In most cases, the symptoms associated with radiculopathy depend on the affected nerves. If the cervical spine (the nerves emanating from the neck) is affected, the impact will be on your arm and neck muscles.

If the thoracic spine (the nerves emanating from the middle part of the back) is affected, the impact will affect the abdomen and chest.

And if the lumbar spine is affected, the impact will be on the legs and hip areas.

Some of the commonly occurring radiculopathy symptoms include;

  • Numbness
  • Pain
  • Continuous tingling sensations in the legs and arms
  • Back pain

How is Radiculopathy Diagnosed?

Radiculopathy can be detected in a number of ways. The detection systems vary based on numerous factors. However, there are three prevalent tests that can diagnose radiculopathy. These include;

  • The medical professional will ask you to lie on your back. Then, you’ll be asked to straightly lift the leg and perform other movements. Your muscle reaction and pain response could help diagnose the condition.
  • Doctors may also opt to use imaging tests such as MRI scans, X-Rays and CT scans. These imaging tests paint a clear picture of your neck pain and lower back pain. In some cases, you may be injected with a special dye to help show the affected area.
  • Doctors could also carry out various tests to examine your muscle and nerve function.

Radiculopathy Treatment Options

Admittedly, there’s still a lot more research needed to better understand radiculopathy and any effective treatment measures. Some of the easy treatment options for radiculopathy symptoms include;

  • General physical therapy
  • Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, and opioid medications.
  • Losing weight especially with proper exercise and diet can help
  • For some cervical radiculopathy cases, wearing a soft collar on the neck for short periods can help alleviate the pain

It is worthwhile to mention that some radiculopathy patients need advanced treatment. For example, you may receive steroid medication injections in the place where you have a herniated disc. Surgery could also benefit some advanced radiculopathy cases.

The chiropractic approach has long been hailed as an effective radiculopathy remedy. If you suspect you are suffering from radiculopathy or if you haven’t had a check-up for a while, you should consider booking  a session with T98 Rehab Chiropractic and Wellness for effective radiculopathy management and treatment.

Can You Prevent Radiculopathy?

Admittedly, more research is needed to understand better how to prevent radiculopathy. However, one thing is clear; chiropractors have the best chance of helping you battle radiculopathy.

Other preventative measures include regular muscle conditioning, working out and keeping reasonable weight, and avoiding strenuous activity on the neck and back.

Why Choose T98 for Radiculopathy Treatment?

Boasting a wealth of practical and theoretical chiropractic experience spanning over five years, our experts will walk with you to ensure you get better. After evaluation, you’ll receive a tailored approach on how to treat radiculopathy. Get in touch today and begin the journey to a better and healthier version of you.