Radiculopathy vs. Neuropathy: Understanding Nerve Disorders

Radiculopathy and neuropathy are medical terms to describe issues with the nerves in the body. Diagnosis and treatment can be complex but are often successful.

Neuropathy

• Neuropathy is not just one disease. It is a term used to indicate a disorder of the peripheral nervous system; problems in the peripheral, or distant, areas of the body. These do not include the central nervous system.

Radiculopathy

• Radiculopathy is a term describing a problem with a single spinal nerve root.

Causes

• The causes of radiculopathy can include pinched or inflamed nerves, a lack of blood flow, or a progressive nerve-damaging disease.

Symptoms

• Common symptoms of neuropathy are weakness; cramps; spasms; loss of coordination; tingling; numbness; a "sock" or "glove" feeling; and sharp, jabbing, or electrical pain. The pain may be constant or intermittent, and is often worse at night.

Evaluation

• An exam by a neurologist, which may include painless tests, can help determine if you have neuropathy or radiculopathy.

Treatment

• Treatments for radiculopathy include physical therapy, surgery and medication. Several types of medication may be tried for both radiculopathy and neuropathy, including antidepressants, anticonvulsants, opioids, local anesthetics, and marijuana-based medications (where legally allowed).