A doctor might prescribe a range of radiculopathy treatments based on the cause, severity, and location of the underlying spinal condition.
Radiculopathy refers to a variety of symptoms that originate from impinged nerve roots located adjacent to the spinal cord. These symptoms include traveling pain, numbness, tingling, and muscular weakness. The location of the symptoms depends on the location of the impinged or irritated nerve root. For example, cervical radiculopathy (in the neck) might lead to tingling and numbness in the fingers, while lumbar radiculopathy (in the lower back) might lead to sciatica pain in the legs and feet.
Radiculopathy treatments for spinal conditions such as degenerative disc disease, osteoarthritis, bulging disc, or herniated disc generally start conservatively. Radiculopathy symptoms produced by the nerve irritation associated with these and other conditions usually can be managed using the following conservative techniques:
- Exercise
- Physical therapy
- Rest or behavior modification
- Pain medications
- Steroid injections
- Massage, chiropractic therapy, or acupuncture
Conservative radiculopathy treatments won’t always be enough. Sometimes, radiculopathy persists even after weeks or months of physical therapy or behavior modification. A doctor might suggest that surgery is an option.
If this is the case, consider Laser Spine Institute (LSI) as an alternative to traditional surgery for radiculopathy. The award-winning doctors at LSI utilize endoscopic techniques to perform minimally invasive, outpatient procedures that can help you rediscover a life without pain. Contact LSI for a free review of your MRI or CT scan and to learn more about our revolutionary radiculopathy treatments.
