Conditions we treat
Treatment for Radiculopathy
Radiculopathy occurs when a nerve root in the spine is compressed or irritated, leading to pain, numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness. It commonly affects the cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) regions, but can also occur in the thoracic spine. Understanding and treating radiculopathy early is key to relieving symptoms and preventing long-term nerve damage. If you’re in areas like Clifton, Union, or Jersey City, our orthopedic specialists can help assess and treat this condition effectively.
What Is Radiculopathy?
Radiculopathy refers to a condition where one or more spinal nerve roots become inflamed or compressed. This can result in symptoms that radiate from the spine into the extremities depending on which part of the spine is affected:
Cervical Radiculopathy: Pain radiates into the shoulder, arm, or hand, often with numbness or weakness.
Lumbar Radiculopathy (Sciatica): Pain shoots into the buttock, leg, or foot. Tingling and leg weakness may occur.
Thoracic Radiculopathy: Less common. May cause a band-like pain in the chest or abdomen.
Causes of Radiculopathy
Degenerative Disc Disease
Bone spurs (osteophytes)
Trauma or spinal injury
Spinal Infections or tumors
Diagnosis
Diagnosing radiculopathy involves a combination of physical examination and imaging:
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Most patients improve with non-surgical care. The goal is to reduce inflammation, relieve pressure on the nerve, and restore function.
Physical Therapy: Strengthening, flexibility, and posture correction
Medications: NSAIDs, corticosteroids, nerve pain agents
Epidural Steroid Injections: Targeted relief for inflammation
Lifestyle Modifications: Posture, ergonomics, and activity adjustments
Chiropractic Care or Manual Therapy (when appropriate)
Surgical Treatment Options
Microdiscectomy: Removes part of a herniated disc
Laminectomy: Relieves pressure from bone or ligaments
Spinal Fusion: Stabilizes unstable spinal segments
Recovery & Prevention
Most patients recover well with proper treatment. Long-term success includes:
- Ergonomic improvements at work/home
- Core and back strengthening
- Weight management
- Early treatment of related issues like Spinal Fractures or Spinal Stenosis
If you’re experiencing symptoms of radiculopathy, schedule a consultation with our spine team. We help patients throughout Clifton, Union, Jersey City, Edison, and Old Bridge.
FAQ
What causes radiculopathy?
Radiculopathy can be caused by disc herniations, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, infections, or tumors that compress or irritate the spinal nerve roots.
Can radiculopathy heal without surgery?
Yes, most cases improve with physical therapy, medication, and targeted injections.
When is surgery needed for radiculopathy?
Surgery may be necessary if there is severe or worsening nerve damage, persistent weakness, or failure to improve with conservative treatment.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery varies. Non-surgical cases may improve in a few weeks. Post-surgery recovery may take several weeks to a few months.
We proudly serve patients throughout New Jersey, including Old Bridge, Clifton, Sewell, Union, Paramus, Raritan, Wayne, Avenel, and Totowa.