spinal radiculopathy Flashcards
1
Q
define radiculopathy?
A
● Radiculopathy refers to spinal nerve root compression. The most common types are lumbar and cervical radiculopathy
2
Q
what are the major causes of radiculopathy?
A
- Herniated disc
- Spinal stenosis
- Degenerative disc disease
- Osteoarthritis
- Facet joint degeneration/hypertrophy
- Ligamentous hypertrophy
- Spondylolisthesis
3
Q
what are risk factors of radiculopathy?
A
- Age
- Overweight
- Poor posture
- Improper lifting technique
- FH of degenerative bone conditions
4
Q
what are the presenting symptoms of radiculopathy?
A
● Sciatica
● Pain/electrical sensations
● Dull reflexes
● LMN weakness and eventual muscle wasting
● UMN signs below level of affected root suggest cord compression
● Position and vibration sense may be lost
5
Q
investigations for radiculopathy?
A
● Full neurological exam ● MRI ● X-ray and MRI ● EMG to test nerve function ● Nerve conduction studies
