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Radiculopathy is the term used to describe the symptoms of nerve root irritation, which can include pain, numbness, tingling and weakness in the legs.
The most common symptom of lumbar radiculopathy is sciatica (/conditions/sciatica/), or pain that radiates from the back into the buttocks and legs. Sensory symptoms are more common than motor symptoms, and muscle weakness is usually a sign that the nerve compression is more severe. The quality and type of pain can vary, from dull, aching, and difficult to localize, to sharp, burning, and easy to pinpoint.
Cervical radiculopathy typically manifests as pain, numbness and weakness that extend from the neck into the shoulders, arms and/or hands. Other symptoms can include neck pain and headaches near the back of the head; arm reflexes also may be impaired.
Radiculopathy can create hypersensitivity to touch as well as numbness in the area of skin that’s served by the affected nerve root. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, particularly muscle weakness, please see your doctor. The longer the source of nerve irritation remains untreated, the greater the potential for long-term or permanent nerve damage.
Radiculopathy can be caused by a variety of conditions or injuries, including:
If you are experiencing pain associated with radiculopathy and are ready to take the next step, start your diagnosis with our interactive condition assessment tool below
In most cases, there is an underlying condition that is causing radiculopathy, and the more quickly you take action to seek a diagnosis and treatment, the better your overall recovery will be.
For milder cases, you may be able to find relief from the painful symptoms associated with sciatica with less invasive or at-home remedies including:
If you are suffering from painful symptoms associated with radiculopathy and are ready to take the next step, try our interactive treatment finder below to find right treatment for you.
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