What is Radiculopathy (Compressed Nerves)?

Radiculopathy refers to a set of conditions where one or more nerves are affected and are not working properly. Usually occuring at the root of the nerve where it exits the spinal cord. The nerve's exit canal can become compressed by surrounding tissues such as bone, cartilage, muscles, or tendons. This often disrupts the nerve's function and can happen anywhere along your spine.

pinched nerve caused by disc herniation

Signs and Symptoms of a Pinched Nerve

When the nerves in your spine are under pressure, it may cause numbness in an arm or leg. Pain can be felt in the general region of the body where the pinched nerve occurs. Nerves can be pinched from performing a strange movement that awkwardly bends your spine, or from the degeneration caused by the normal wear and tear of life.

Pinched nerves can heal on their own over a period of weeks, but in some cases, surgical care is required to restore complete functionality. If physical therapy or medication does not work for you, you may be one of the cases where surgery is an option.

Surgical Treatment Options

Pinched Nerves can be treated with the following procedures:

Laminotomy
Laminectomy
Foraminotomy
Discectomy