Cervical & Lumbar Radiculopathy in Syracuse, NY — CNY Neurological Consulting
Conditions
Cervical & Lumbar Radiculopathy in Syracuse, NY
Radiculopathy occurs when a spinal nerve root is compressed or irritated, causing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that radiates along the distribution of that nerve. CNY Neurological Consulting evaluates radiculopathy and coordinates appropriate diagnostic testing.
What Is Radiculopathy?
Radiculopathy results from compression, inflammation, or injury to a spinal nerve root — the portion of the nerve that exits the spinal canal. Common causes include herniated discs, degenerative changes in the spine (spondylosis), and spinal stenosis.
Cervical radiculopathy affects nerve roots in the neck and typically causes symptoms in the arm, shoulder, or hand. Lumbosacral radiculopathy affects nerve roots in the lower back and typically causes symptoms in the buttock, leg, or foot.
Common Symptoms
- Cervical radiculopathy: neck pain radiating into the arm, shoulder, or hand; numbness or tingling in the arm or fingers; arm weakness
- Lumbosacral radiculopathy: low back pain radiating into the buttock, leg, or foot; numbness or tingling in the leg or foot; leg weakness
- Symptoms may worsen with certain positions or activities
Neurological Evaluation
Evaluation includes a neurological history and examination to characterize the distribution of symptoms and identify any motor or sensory deficits. Neuroimaging of the spine — typically MRI — is often obtained to identify the structural cause.
EMG and nerve conduction studies can provide complementary information about the functional status of the nerve root and help distinguish radiculopathy from other conditions such as peripheral neuropathy or plexopathy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does CNY Neurological perform spine surgery?
No. CNY Neurological Consulting provides neurological evaluation and diagnostic testing for radiculopathy. Surgical management of spinal conditions is performed by neurosurgeons or orthopedic spine surgeons. We coordinate with surgical specialists when appropriate.
What is the difference between radiculopathy and peripheral neuropathy?
Radiculopathy involves compression or irritation of a nerve root at the spine, typically causing symptoms in a specific dermatomal or myotomal distribution. Peripheral neuropathy involves damage to peripheral nerves beyond the spine, often causing a length-dependent pattern of symptoms beginning in the feet and hands. EMG and nerve conduction studies help distinguish between them.
Schedule a Consultation
CNY Neurological Consulting serves patients throughout Syracuse and Central New York. Contact our office to schedule a neurological consultation.