Radiculoneuropathy: Nerve Root Irritation from Herniated Discs, Stenosis, or Injury

Definition

Radiculoneuropathy (radiculopathy) is dysfunction of a spinal nerve root due to compression, inflammation, or injury, causing radicular symptoms in the corresponding dermatome/myotome.

Common Causes

• Herniated nucleus pulposus (disc herniation)
• Spinal stenosis (central or foraminal)
• Degenerative spondylolisthesis
• Bone spurs (osteophytes)
• Trauma, tumors, infections

Symptoms (by Level)

• Cervical: neck/shoulder/arm pain, numbness, weakness (C5–T1 distributions).
• Lumbar: low back/buttock/leg pain (sciatica), foot drop (L5), sensory loss.

Management

• Conservative: NSAIDs, physical therapy, epidural steroid injections, activity modification.
• Surgical: Microdiscectomy, laminectomy, foraminotomy, fusion for refractory/severe cases.

Red Flags

Cauda equina syndrome (saddle anesthesia, bowel/bladder dysfunction) → emergency surgery.