Radiculopathy is a medical term that denotes a condition affecting the nerves. Any injury or medical condition that impacts the nerve roots in the spine falls under the category of radiculopathy. This article will discuss the varying forms of radiculopathy and what can be done about these injuries.
What is Radiculopathy?
As mentioned above, radiculopathy is an umbrella term for conditions that negatively impact the nerve roots. Radiculopathy nerve damage can cause any of the following symptoms:
- Mild to severe pain in the back, arms, and legs.
- A tingling or numbing sensation in the extremities.
- Bladder control issues.
- Leg weakness.
- Fever and/or chills.
Radiculopathy is not something you should ignore. If left untreated, it can lead to chronic pain, and even permanent nerve damage.
Nerve Damage
Nerve damage can occur in any car accident, from minor fender benders to severe crashes. Whiplash is the primary cause of radiculopathy in the cervical spine (the neck). The lumbar (low back) region of the spine can also be affected in any car crash that places too much force on the spine. This radiculopathy can manifest in a compressed nerve, herniated disc, spinal stenosis, and other conditions.
Treatment Options
Injuries involving radiculopathy and nerve damage can be treated with various methods. Your particular treatment will depend on your particular situation. Treatments can include chiropractic techniques, injections to control pain, physical therapy, and surgery.