We're experts at treating Radiculopathy

Radiculopathy, commonly referred to as a pinched nerve, occurs when a nerve in the spine becomes compressed or irritated, leading to pain, numbness, weakness, or tingling that radiates to other parts of the body. Depending on the location of the affected nerve, radiculopathy can cause symptoms in the neck, arms, lower back, or legs. This condition is often caused by herniated discs, bone spurs, or spinal degeneration. While radiculopathy can be painful and disruptive, a range of treatment options are available to relieve symptoms and restore function.

A man rubbing his lower back due to its pain

Understanding Radiculopathy

Radiculopathy is a condition that occurs when a nerve root in the spine is compressed, irritated, or inflamed. This can lead to symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that radiates along the affected nerve pathway. Radiculopathy can occur in different areas of the spine, and the location of the compression determines where symptoms are felt.

  • Cervical radiculopathy affects the neck and may cause pain that radiates to the shoulders, arms, and hands.

  • Thoracic radiculopathy occurs in the mid-back, though it is less common, and may cause pain around the chest or abdomen.

  • Lumbar radiculopathy affects the lower back and can lead to pain, numbness, or weakness that radiates down the legs, often referred to as sciatica.

Causes of Radiculopathy

Radiculopathy is often caused by conditions that put pressure on the nerve roots within the spine, including:

Degenerative Spine Conditions

  • Herniated or bulging discs: When spinal discs weaken or rupture, they can press against nearby nerves.

  • Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal can put pressure on nerves, leading to radiculopathy.

  • Bone spurs (osteophytes): Extra bone growth due to arthritis can contribute to nerve compression.

Injuries and Structural Issues

  • Trauma: Car accidents, falls, or sports injuries can damage the spine and lead to nerve compression.

  • Spondylolisthesis: A condition in which a vertebra slips out of place, causing nerve irritation.

  • Repetitive movements and poor posture: Improper lifting techniques or prolonged sitting can strain the spine over time.

Treatment Options for Radiculopathy

Conservative Treatments

  • Medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, or neuropathic pain relievers.

  • Physical therapy to strengthen supporting muscles and improve flexibility, reducing nerve pressure.

  • Lifestyle modifications including improved posture, ergonomic adjustments, and weight management.

Interventional Pain Management

  • Epidural steroid injections to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

  • Nerve blocks to provide targeted pain relief and reduce nerve irritation.

  • Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) to disrupt pain signals from affected nerves.

Minimally Invasive and Surgical Treatments

  • Minimally invasive decompression procedures to relieve nerve pressure.

  • Microdiscectomy for removing herniated disc material that is pressing on a nerve.

  • Spinal fusion in severe cases to stabilize the spine and prevent further nerve irritation.

How Premier Pain Can Help

At Premier Pain Treatment Institute, our experienced team takes a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating radiculopathy. We use advanced diagnostic techniques to identify the root cause of your pain and create personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs.

Whether through minimally invasive procedures, rehabilitation programs, or innovative pain management techniques, we are committed to helping you regain mobility and improve your quality of life. And with locations throughout Cincinnati and Southwest Ohio, relief from radiculopathy is never far away!

Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward lasting radiculopathy relief.