Radiculopathy
Radiculopathy refers to symptoms that occur when a spinal nerve root becomes irritated or compressed as it exits the neck or lower back. The affected structures can include the nerve root itself, nearby intervertebral discs, facet joints, ligaments, and surrounding soft tissues. This irritation often comes from a herniated disc, age-related arthritis with bone spurs, or narrowing of the space around the nerve, and can cause pain that travels down an arm or a leg.
Symptoms can start suddenly after lifting or twisting, or develop gradually over time. Many people improve with activity changes, targeted exercises, and nonoperative care. The specialists at OrthoNJ can evaluate your symptoms, confirm the diagnosis, and create a treatment plan that fits your goals.
What Are the Symptoms of Radiculopathy?
- Radiating pain
- Pain travels along the path of the nerve, often from the neck into the shoulder and arm or from the lower back into the buttock and leg.
- It may feel sharp, burning, or electric and can worsen with certain positions or activities.
- Numbness or tingling
- A pins-and-needles sensation or reduced feeling in a specific area served by the affected nerve.
- These sensations can come and go or persist with certain movements.
- Muscle weakness
- Weakness in the shoulder, arm, hand, hip, thigh, or foot, depending on which nerve is involved.
- You may notice difficulty gripping objects, lifting the foot, or climbing stairs.
- Changes in reflexes or coordination
- Reflexes can be reduced on the affected side.
- Fine motor control or balance may feel off when the nerve signal is disrupted.
- Pain with certain movements
- Neck rotation, looking up or down, prolonged sitting, or coughing and sneezing can increase pressure on the nerve.
- Finding a neutral posture often eases discomfort.
- Sensory hypersensitivity
- Some people report burning or heightened sensitivity to touch in the irritated nerve’s territory.
- Sleep can be disrupted when symptoms flare at night.
What Causes Radiculopathy?
- Herniated disc: Disc material can push on a nerve root, most often after bending, twisting, or lifting.
- Age-related degeneration: Wear and tear of discs and facet joints can lead to bone spurs that narrow nerve passageways.
- Foraminal or spinal stenosis: Tight spaces around the nerve due to thickened ligaments, joint enlargement, or disc collapse.
- Trauma or impact: Falls, collisions, or sudden heavy loads can injure the disc or joints and irritate the nerve.
- Repetitive strain: Repeated bending, twisting, vibration, or prolonged sitting can stress spinal structures over time.
- Posture and mechanics: Poor ergonomics and weak core or hip support increase strain on the neck and lower back.
- Other risk factors: Aging, smoking, heavy labor, and low activity levels can raise the chance of nerve compression.
How to Prevent Radiculopathy
- Ergonomics: Set up your workstation so screens are at eye level, elbows are near your sides, and feet are supported.
- Posture breaks: Change positions, stand, and walk briefly every 30 to 60 minutes to reduce pressure on discs and nerves.
- Strength and mobility: Build core, hip, and shoulder blade strength, and keep your neck and hamstrings flexible.
- Safe lifting: Use your legs, keep loads close to the body, and avoid twisting while carrying weight.
- Healthy weight and activity: Regular exercise and weight management reduce strain on the spine.
- Avoid smoking: Smoking reduces blood flow to discs and can speed degeneration.
When to Seek Orthopaedic Care for Radiculopathy
- Severe or worsening pain: Intense pain that does not improve with rest or over-the-counter care should be evaluated.
- Progressive weakness: New or increasing weakness in the arm, hand, leg, or foot is a reason to seek prompt care.
- Changes in bowel or bladder function: Loss of control or numbness in the groin area requires urgent medical attention.
- Pain after a fall or accident: Symptoms following trauma should be assessed by a specialist.
- Symptoms that persist: If pain, tingling, or numbness lasts beyond a few weeks or interferes with sleep or work, schedule a visit.
- Fever or unexplained weight loss: These signs along with back or neck pain should be checked by a clinician.
An orthopedic surgeon is recommended for radiculopathy, as they can assess the condition and, when indicated, use imaging to decide on appropriate treatment, including any necessary surgical options for radiculopathy. At OrthoNJ, our team will guide you through a plan focused on relief, function, and safe return to activity.
Find An OrthoNJ Location
Contact one of OrthoNJ's locations spread out through all of New Jersey.
Why Choose an OrthoNJ Doctor for Your Care?
OrthoNJ is different from your typical medical provider. Unlike many in the industry, we prioritize patient care over profits. Our six divisions work collaboratively to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. We believe in the "Power to Put Patients First," and our doctors and divisional partners strive to uphold this commitment in every aspect of our care.
- With over 120 fantastic physicians, all board-certified, board-qualified, or fellowship-trained, OrthoNJ offers top-tier expertise across a wide range of specialties.
- We serve over 250 communities throughout New Jersey, providing treatment and continuing care for various orthopedic needs.
- With more than 30 statewide offices, our reach extends across the entire state. Whether in North Jersey, South Jersey, or anywhere between, OrthoNJ proudly serves you.
This treatment info is for informational purposes only. Treatment and recovery vary person to person, and you should consult with your treating physician and team for details on your treatment and recovery process.
