Spine: Radiculopathy

Question 1

What is Radiculopathy?

Answer 1

conduction block in axons of a spinal nerve/ its roots, with impact on motor axons causing weakness + sensory axons causing paraesthesia +/or anaesthesia

+/- radicular pain.

Question 2

What is the most common broad cause of Radiculopathy?

Answer 2

Nerve compression

Question 3

List 5 risk factors for Radiculopathy

Answer 3

Age
Overweight
Poor posture
Improper lifting technique 
FH of degenerative bone conditions

Question 4

List 5 causes of Radiculopathy

Answer 4

Intervertebral disc prolapse
Degenerative diseases of the spine e.g. spinal stenosis
Fracture
Malignancy (often mets)
Infection

Question 5

List 4 symptoms of radiculopathy

Answer 5

Weakness
Tingling/ pins + needles
Numbness
Radicular pain

Question 6

What emergency differential must be excluded when considering radiculopathy? List 3 red flags

Answer 6

Cauda Equina Syndrome
Faecal incontinence
Urinary retention
Saddle anaesthesia

Question 7

List 3 signs of radiculopathy

Answer 7

Dull reflexes
Reduced pain + temperature sensation
Reduced proprioception + vibration sensation

Question 8

List 6 investigations for radiculopathy

Answer 8

Full neurological exam
Bloods: FBC, ESR, CRP, CSF cultures
MRI
XR
EMG to test nerve function 
Nerve conduction studies