Radicular Syndrome (Nerve Pain)
Radicular syndrome, also known as nerve pain, is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when nerve roots coming from the spinal cord are compressed or irritated, leading to sharp pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs. This condition, often caused by issues like a herniated disc or spinal injury, can make daily activities difficult. We offer personalized care to help you find relief and restore mobility.
What is Radicular Syndrome?
Radicular syndrome, also known as radiculopathy or sciatica, is nerve pain that starts in the spine and travels to the limbs. It occurs when nerve roots, which send signals between the spinal cord and body, are compressed or irritated. This can happen due to various reasons, such as slipped discs, spine wear and tear, bone spurs, or other spine problems.
How Nerve Roots Become Compressed
Nerve roots are delicate structures from the spinal cord at each vertebra level. When these roots are squeezed or inflamed, they can lead to a range of troublesome symptoms, including pain, numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness. The compression or inflammation can be caused by different conditions, such as a herniated disc, narrowing of the spine, or even scar tissue from old injuries or surgeries.
Radicular Pain Patterns
The pain pattern in radicular syndrome depends on which nerve root is affected. For example, if it’s in the neck area (cervical), you might feel pain, numbness, or tingling in your shoulders, arms, and hands. If it’s in the lower back (lumbar), known as sciatica, the pain usually goes down the back of your leg. Although less common, if it’s in the middle back (thoracic), you might feel pain in your chest or stomach area.
Causes of Radicular Syndrome
Some common causes of this condition include:
Herniated or Bulging Discs
These discs act like cushions between the bones in your spine. When they are damaged or out of place, they can press on nearby nerve roots.
Degenerative Disc Disease
As we get older, the discs in our spine become less flexible and can’t absorb shock as well. This can lead to a narrowing of the spine, known as spinal stenosis, putting pressure on the nerve roots and causing radicular syndrome.
Bone Spurs
Bone spurs, also called osteophytes, are extra bone growths that can form on spine bones due to wear and tear or arthritis. These spurs can push into the spinal canal or nerve openings, squeezing and irritating nerves.
Other Causes
Spondylolisthesis happens when a vertebra slips forward, compressing nerve roots and causing radicular syndrome. It can result from a birth defect, aging, or injury. Sudden injuries, like a slipped disc from an accident or fall, may also lead to radicular syndrome by damaging nerve roots or causing swelling.
Symptoms of Radicular Syndrome
Symptoms can vary based on where and how badly the nerve root is compressed, but some include:
- Arm and Leg Pain: A key symptom is pain that spreads from the back or neck down the arms or legs. This pain can feel like a dull ache or a sharp, burning, or electric sensation.
- Numbness and Tingling: Radicular syndrome can also cause numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” feeling in the affected limb. This happens because the squeezed or irritated nerve root can’t send normal sensory signals.
- Muscle Weakness: Sometimes, radicular syndrome can weaken muscles in the affected limb. This occurs because the squeezed or irritated nerve root can’t properly send signals to the related muscle groups, leading to less strength and coordination.
- Reflexes and Sensations: During diagnosis, doctors may check a patient’s reflexes and sensations. Weak or missing reflexes, along with changes in sensation, can point to nerve root involvement and help confirm radicular syndrome.
Diagnosing Radicular Syndrome
Diagnosing radicular syndrome starts with an evaluation from your physician, including a detailed medical history, a physical exam, and various imaging and diagnostic tests. During the physical exam, the physician assesses the patient’s range of motion, muscle strength, reflexes, and the location and nature of the pain to identify the affected nerve root(s).
Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI scans, and CT scans may also be ordered. X-rays can reveal bone changes, MRI scans provide detailed views of soft tissues like discs and nerves, and CT scans offer more precise images of bones.
By identifying the underlying cause of radicular syndrome, the physician can tailor treatments to provide relief and improve the quality of life for those affected.
Nonsurgical Treatment Options
For many people with nerve pain, starting with nonsurgical treatment is the best approach.
Physical Therapy
A physical therapist can create a personalized treatment plan that teaches flexibility, strengthens your core, and reduces swelling.
Medications
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
Epidural Steroid Injections
Epidural steroid injections, administered directly into the epidural space surrounding the spinal cord and nerve roots, can help reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief for patients with severe or persistent radicular syndrome.
Chiropractic Care
Spinal adjustments can help improve spinal alignment and reduce nerve root compression.
Surgical Treatment Options
If other treatments don’t work, or if your pain is extreme, surgery is an option.
- Discectomy: A procedure that requires the removal of the part of the disc that’s pushing on your nerve.
- Laminectomy: A surgical procedure where a small piece of bone is removed to give your nerves more room.
- Spinal Fusion: Two or more bones will be connected in your spine.
Finding Relief from Radicular Syndrome
Radicular syndrome is a complex condition that feels different for everyone. By understanding it and recognizing the various symptoms and treatments, you can find relief, regain your mobility, and improve your quality of life.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of radicular syndrome, don’t wait to seek help. Our experienced team at Florida Medical Clinic Orlando Health is ready to provide personalized care to help you find relief and restore your mobility. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward living pain-free.
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