What is Radicular Pain?

Radicular pain is the pain that radiates along the path of a nerve due to irritation, compression, or inflammation of the nerve root. It is commonly associated with spinal conditions that affect the cervical (neck) or lumbar (lower back) regions. However, it can manifest anywhere along the spine. The pain often extends into areas such as the arms, legs, or feet, following the specific pathway of the affected nerve.

Common Causes of Radicular Pain

Radicular pain can be triggered by a variety of conditions that put pressure on the spine or can potentially damage the spinal nerve roots. These include:

• Herniated Disc: When the inner gel-like material of a spinal disc bulges out, it can press on the nerve root, causing pain to radiate.
  
  
• Degenerative Disc Disease: Age-related changes in spinal discs may lead to narrowing of the spaces between the vertebrae (bones that make up the spine), putting pressure on nearby nerves.
  
  
• Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal can compress the nerve roots, leading to pain that radiates to different parts of the body.
  
  
• Spondylolisthesis: A condition where one vertebra slips out of alignment, potentially pinching a nerve root.
  
  
• Infection or Tumors: infections or tumors in or around the spine can also cause radicular pain. It’s important to note these are not as common

Symptoms of Radicular Pain

Depending on the location and severity of the nerve involvement, Radicular pain can manifest in a variety of ways. These include:

• Sharp, shooting pain: an "electric shock" sensation that radiates down the arm or leg.
  
  
• Numbness or tingling: A "pins and needles" feeling that can occur along the nerve pathway.
  
  
• Muscle weakness: Decreased strength in the arm or leg muscles, this can affect movement or coordination.
  
  
• Loss of reflexes: Decreased or absent reflexes in the affected area.

The pain can worsen with specific movements, such as coughing, sneezing, or bending. It can also become more aggravated by prolonged sitting or standing.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

If you are experiencing symptoms of radicular pain, a healthcare provider will conduct a thorough examination, which may include:

• Medical History & Physical Exam: To identify the underlying cause and assess your symptoms.
  
  
• Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to detect disc herniation, stenosis, or other structural issues.
  
  
• Electromyography (EMG): To measure the electrical activity of muscles and confirm nerve involvement.

Treatment for radicular pain typically starts with conservative measures such as:

• Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce pressure on the nerve.
  
  
• Medications: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and sometimes nerve-specific medications to reduce pain and inflammation.
  
  
• Epidural Steroid Injections: To reduce inflammation around the nerve root and provide pain relief.
  
  
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Ergonomic modifications to reduce stress on the spine, weight management, and posture improvement.

In more severe cases, surgery may be considered, particularly if there is significant nerve damage or the pain does not improve with non-surgical treatments. Surgical options may include:

• Discectomy: Removal of a herniated disc that is pressing on the nerve.
  
  
• Laminectomy: Removal of part of the vertebra to relieve pressure on the nerve.
  
  
• Spinal Fusion: To stabilize the spine if there is vertebral slippage or significant degeneration.

Managing Radicular Pain

While radicular pain can be challenging, the right treatment can help manage the pain. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to managing symptoms and preventing further nerve damage. If you are experiencing symptoms of radicular pain, contact our clinic to schedule an evaluation with one of our specialists. We are here to help you find relief and restore your quality of life.