Radiculopathies Flashcards
1
Q
What is a radiculopathy?
A
Conduction block in the axons of a spinal nerve/root
2
Q
What is the effect of a motor radiculopathy?
A
Weakness
3
Q
What is the effect of a sensory radiculopathy?
A
Paraesthesia
Anaesthesia
4
Q
What is radicular pain?
A
Pain derived from damage/irritation of spinal nerve
5
Q
What are common causes of radiculopathy?
A
Intervertebral disc prolapse Degenerative diseases of the spine Fracture Malignancy Infection
6
Q
What are clinical features of radiculopathy?
A
Paraesthesia
Wekaness
Radicular pain
7
Q
How is radicular pain described?
A
Burning, deep pain
8
Q
What are red flag features of radiculopathy?
A
Cauda equina
- faecal incontinence
- urinary retention
- saddle anaesthesia
Infection
- immunosuppression
- IVDU
- fever
- steroid use
Fracture
- steroid use
- trauma
- osteoporosis
Malignancy
- hx of malignancy
- onset after 50
9
Q
How is radiculopathy managed?
A
Treat underlying cause
Analgesia - neuropathic pain
Physiotherapy
