Symptoms of Radiculopathy
The biggest giveaway of a pinched nerve is neuropathic pain. Paresthesia is another common symptom, with many people reporting feelings of numbness and tingling in the affected area. Many also report feeling a “pins and needles” sensation. Muscle weakness is another symptom. Radiculopathy symptoms could show up in different parts of the body; for example, in sciatica, these symptoms are experienced in the lower part of the back because that is where the sciatic nerve is located.
If you are experiencing these symptoms on a frequent basis, then you may need to see a chiropractor for treatment.
How Radiculopathy is Diagnosed
While practicing good posture and maintaining a healthy weight can help in reducing the risk of radiculopathy, in some cases it is unavoidable. If a patient reports paresthesia-like symptoms, the doctor will likely perform a physical examination to test for radiculopathy. A pinched nerve can be discovered through nerve conduction studies, EMGs, MRIs, and ultrasounds. Once a diagnosis is reached, the doctor will recommend a course of treatment for the pinched nerve.
Pinched Nerve Treatment
Physical therapy is a popular chiropractic method of treatment for radiculopathy. In physical therapy, the specialist will use exercises and modifications that will target specific muscles and pressure points for improvement. A pinched nerve can also be addressed with pain management.
If you think you might have pinched nerve a.k.a. radiculopathy contact Alliance Orthopedics so our Physical Therapists and Chiropractors can evalutate your pain and find the best treatment plan for you.
Stay safe!