Radiculopathy is a condition in which nerves within in the spine are compressed or irritated and cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness along the course of the nerve. Radiculopathy can occur in any part of the spine, but it is most common in the lower back and in the neck. The pain often radiates to the part of the body served by that nerve. For example, a nerve root impingement in the neck can produce pain and weakness in the forearm.
Risk factors for radiculopathy are activities that place an excessive or repetitive load on the spine. Persons involved in heavy labor are more prone to develop radiculopathy than those with a more sedentary lifestyle. A family history of radiculopathy or other spine disorders also increase the risk of developing radiculopathy. Other causes of radiculopathy include diabetes, which can decrease the normal blood flow to the spinal nerves. Inflammation from trauma or degeneration can lead to radiculopathy from direct irritation of the nerves.
Most patients with radiculopathy respond well to conservative treatment including physical therapy or chiropractic. Spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) describes techniques where the hands are used to manipulate, massage, mobilize, adjust, stimulate, apply traction to, or otherwise influence the spine and related tissues. Chiropractic techniques also include relaxation/stress reduction recommendations, ice therapy (cryotherapy), extremity adjusting, and trigger point therapy. Radiculopathy can resolve within six weeks to three months with chiropractic therapy.
Visit San Diego A.C.T.I.V.E. Chiropractic & Wellness Center 1463 E. Plaza Blvd. National City, CA. 91950. Call 619-474-6800 to make an appointment. The clinic specializes in auto accidents and is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. To learn more about Dr. Matanza and his services go to http://www.sdactivechiropractic.com.
