Back Radiculopathy: Anatomy, Symptoms, Risk Factors, Prevention & Treatment

What is Back Radiculopathy?

Back Radiculopathy affects the spinal cord that runs down a canal make up of bones that make up the spine which are called vertebrae.  Nerve root run out of the spinal cord and thought the individual vertebrae throughout the body.  

Anatomy of Radiculopathy

Radiculopathy is when the nerve root is affected by things such as herniated disks. Herniated disc are when the cushion between the vertebrae slip and press on the spinal cord or nerve roots.  It often occurs in the lower back, or lumbar area, this can cause pain that radiates down the back of the leg of the calf or foot (also known as sciatica).  Sciatica pain can reappear with certain activities and positions, like sitting or walking.  Compression occurring in the higher lumbar nerve roots (L2-L4) can cause radicular pain in the front of the thigh and the shin.  Thoracic radiculopathy occurs when here are pinched nerves int he middle portion of the spine.  Radiculopathy in this area causes pain in the chest and torso.  

Symptoms of Back Radiculopathy

1. Sharp pain in the back that may travel all the way to your foot
2. Pain that becomes worse with certain activities like sitting or coughing
3. Numbness in the leg or foot
4. Weakness int he leg
5. Pain in the chest and torso (thoracic radiculopathy)
6. Loss of reflexes
7. Hypersensitivity

Risk Factors of Back Radiculopathy

1. Age (>50years)
2. Bone spurs
3. Poor posture or stress from repetitive activities

Preventative Measures for Back Radiculopathy

1. Stay physically fit
2. Use good posture always
3. Do not stay seated for long periods of time

Treatment for Back Radiculopathy

ASTR trata back radiculopathy de uma forma suave, eficaz e natural, abordando desequilíbrios musculares, tecido cicatricial, pontos-gatilho, restrições de fáscia, inflamação, postura, mecânica corporal que muitas vezes são a fonte da dor. ASTR adota uma abordagem holística para abordar as causas da dor, não apenas os sintomas. O tratamento ASTR pode ser feito em casa para back radiculopathy.