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Understanding Radiculopathy



Imagine experiencing sharp, shooting pain radiating from your neck down your arm, or perhaps from your lower back down into your leg, accompanied by numbness or tingling. If this sounds familiar, you might be dealing with radiculopathy. At Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery (VSON), our team of specialists, including Drs. Braxton, Gnirke, and Raub, are here to help you find relief and restore your quality of life.


What is Radiculopathy?


Radiculopathy occurs when a nerve in the spine becomes compressed or irritated, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness that radiates along the path of the nerve. This condition can occur in different parts of the spine, including the neck (cervical radiculopathy), upper back (thoracic radiculopathy), or lower back (lumbar radiculopathy).


Causes and Risk Factors


Several factors can lead to the development of radiculopathy. Common causes include:


  • Herniated Discs: A disc that slips out of place can press on nearby nerves, causing symptoms of radiculopathy.

  • Degenerative Disc Disease: As we age, the discs in our spine can degenerate, leading to nerve compression and pain.

  • Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal can put pressure on the nerves, resulting in radiculopathy.


Recognizing the Symptoms


The symptoms of radiculopathy can vary depending on the location of the affected nerve. Here are some key signs to look out for:


  • Cervical Radiculopathy: Pain, numbness, or weakness radiating from the neck down the arm and into the hand. This is often accompanied by muscle weakness and difficulty with fine motor skills.

  • Thoracic Radiculopathy: Pain that radiates around the chest or abdomen, often mistaken for cardiac or gastrointestinal issues. This type is less common but can be particularly painful.

  • Lumbar Radiculopathy: Pain, tingling, or numbness that radiates from the lower back down the leg, often referred to as sciatica. This can lead to difficulty walking or standing for long periods.


Treatment Options for Radiculopathy


At VSON, our team of experts, including Drs. Braxton, Gnirke, and Raub, are highly skilled in diagnosing radiculopathy. Through a combination of physical examinations, imaging studies, and nerve conduction tests, they can accurately identify the cause and location of your symptoms. VSON offers a comprehensive range of treatment options tailored to your specific condition, whether it’s cervical radiculopathy, thoracic radiculopathy, or lumbar radiculopathy:


Non-Surgical Solutions:


  • Pain Management: Drs. Gnirke and Raub specialize in using medications and injections to reduce inflammation and alleviate nerve pain. Physical therapy is also a key component of their approach, helping patients regain strength and mobility.

  • Lifestyle Modifications: In many cases, changes in posture, activity level, and ergonomic adjustments can significantly reduce symptoms.


Surgical Interventions:


  • Spinal Decompression Surgery: Dr. Braxton performs procedures such as laminectomy, discectomy, or spinal fusion to relieve pressure on the affected nerve roots. These surgeries are often highly effective for patients with persistent or severe radiculopathy symptoms.


Why Choose Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery?


At VSON, we’re committed to providing patient-centered care with a focus on both non-surgical and surgical options. Whether you’re dealing with cervical radiculopathy, thoracic radiculopathy, or lumbar radiculopathy, our team of specialists is dedicated to helping you find the most effective treatment plan.


Don’t let radiculopathy hold you back any longer. Schedule a consultation with one of our specialists today and take the first step towards a pain-free life. At VSON, we’re here to help you get back to doing what you love, with the highest level of care for your spine.

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