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Understanding Back and Neck Pain

Radiculopathy occurs when a nerve root in the spine becomes compressed or inflamed, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness. It can affect both the lumbar (lower back) and cervical (neck) regions, often causing distress but is typically treatable. The compression of the nerve can result from various factors, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or degenerative changes in the spine. Symptoms can radiate down the arms or legs, depending on the location of the affected nerve. While radiculopathy can cause significant discomfort, treatment options such as physical therapy, medications, and in some cases, surgery, can help alleviate symptoms and improve mobility. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to managing the condition effectively.

Lumbar Radiculopathy

This condition results from nerve compression in the lower back, often due to herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, or spinal stenosis. Symptoms include sharp pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness radiating down the legs, commonly referred to as sciatica. Activities like bending, lifting, or twisting can aggravate the pain.

Cervical Radiculopathy

Cervical radiculopathy involves nerve compression in the neck, often caused by herniated discs or bone spurs. Symptoms include neck pain, tingling or numbness radiating into the arms, hands, or fingers, and weakness in the arms or hands, which may affect motor skills or grip strength.

Symptoms

Pain: Sharp, burning, or stabbing pain radiating into the limbs.
Numbness: Pins and needles sensation or loss of sensation along the nerve path.
Weakness: Decreased strength in affected muscles, leading to difficulty with movements.
Reduced Reflexes: Diminished or absent reflexes in the affected limb.

Diagnosis
A physical examination helps identify muscle strength, reflexes, and sensory deficits. Imaging tests like MRI or CT scans pinpoint the source and location of compression, and electromyography (EMG) may further assess nerve and muscle function.

Why Choose Harmony Pain Management?

Personalized Care

Custom treatment plans tailored to your needs

Advanced Treatments

Safe, effective interventional pain solutions

Comprehensive Approach

Multi-modal therapies to restore function

Compassionate Expertise

Care led by Dr. Manjunath Shetty with empathy and professionalism

Full Support

Guidance through every step of your recovery and documentation

Support for Personal Injury Cases

We specialize in treating patients injured in auto accidents, workplace incidents, or other personal injury cases. Our team works closely with attorneys, insurance adjusters, and medical providers to ensure your treatment and documentation are handled with precision throughout your recovery process.

Overview and Treatment

DDD is the natural deterioration of the intervertebral discs, often due to aging. These discs act as cushions between vertebrae and lose hydration and elasticity over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and nerve compression. It most commonly affects the lumbar (lower back) and cervical (neck) regions.

Symptoms

Pain: Dull or sharp pain in the back or neck, worsening with sitting, bending, or lifting, sometimes radiating into limbs.
Stiffness: Reduced range of motion, making bending, twisting, or standing difficult.
Numbness/Tingling: Sensation of “pins and needles” in the limbs due to nerve compression.
Weakness: Muscle weakness affecting daily activities like lifting or walking.
Reduced Reflexes: Diminished reflexes due to nerve root compression.

Diagnosis
A physical exam assesses strength, reflexes, and range of motion. Imaging tests (X-rays, MRI, CT scans) help confirm diagnosis by showing disc space narrowing and degeneration. Electromyography (EMG) may assess nerve and muscle function.

Treatment

Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen muscles, improve posture, and reduce pain.
Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, muscle relaxants, and corticosteroids.
Epidural Steroid Injections: Direct relief for severe nerve compression.
Selective Nerve Root Block (SNRB): Anesthetic and steroid injection for pain relief.
Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS) Trial: Electrical impulses to interrupt pain signals for chronic cases.
Surgery: Options include discectomy, spinal fusion, or artificial disc replacement for severe cases.

Conclusion
DDD, though common with aging, can be managed effectively with conservative treatments. Early diagnosis and timely intervention help reduce pain and improve quality of life. For severe cases, surgery may be considered.