Radiculopathy

Question 1

Define:

Answer 1

Spinal nerve root compression

Most common types are lumbar and cervical although you can get thoracic

Question 2

Aetiology:

Answer 2

Herniated disc 
Degenerative disc disease 
Spinal stenosis
Facet joint degeneration/hypertrophy 
Ligamentous hypertrophy 
Spondylothesis - when a vertebrae moves and rests on the vertebrae below. 

Rare causes - DM (due to the reduced blood supply), radiation, neoplastic disease, lyme meningitis

Question 3

Risk factors:

Answer 3

Age 
Overweight
Poor posture
Improper lifting technique 
Fhx of degenerative bone disease

Question 4

Signs and symptoms:

Answer 4

Lumbar and sacral are the main causes of sciatica

Pain/electrical sensations in the arms, fingers and legs @ the level of the compression

Dull reflexes

Dynatomial sensory disturbance - tingling, numbness, weakness, reduced pain and temp sensation

At the level of the lesion LMN signs

Below the lesion UMN signs - upgoing plantars, spasticity, weakness and brisk reflexes

Question 5

Investigations:

Answer 5

Full neuro exam

MRI

MRI and X-ray

EMG

Nerve conduction studies