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Conditions

Radiculopathy

A pinched or irritated nerve root in the spine, causing pain, numbness or weakness in a limb.

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About this condition

Radiculopathy happens when a nerve root, where a nerve leaves the spinal cord, is compressed or irritated. It can occur in the neck (cervical radiculopathy) or the lower back (lumbar radiculopathy).

Causes include a slipped disc and age-related narrowing of the spaces where the nerves leave the spine.

Common symptoms

  • Pain that spreads into an arm or leg
  • Numbness or tingling along the path of the nerve
  • Weakness of particular muscles
  • Reduced reflexes

Having one or more of these does not by itself mean you have a particular condition. A doctor's assessment is needed to find the cause.

How it is assessed

  1. An examination of strength, reflexes and sensation.
  2. MRI and nerve tests (EMG/NCS), if advised.

Who may be affected

  • People with arm or leg pain linked to neck or back problems
  • People with numbness or weakness in a limb

Preparing for your appointment

It helps to bring:

  • Previous medical reports, prescriptions and hospital discharge summaries
  • MRI or CT scan films and reports, if you have them
  • A list of all the medicines you take, with their doses
  • A short note of your symptoms: when they started, how often they happen and what makes them better or worse
What to Bring First Visit Guide

How the clinic can help

  • Pain relief and physiotherapy.
  • Monitoring for improvement.
  • Other treatment options if symptoms persist or weakness increases.

Recommendations depend on the clinician's assessment of your individual situation. This website cannot diagnose your condition or guarantee a particular result.

Frequently asked questions

Is radiculopathy the same as sciatica?

Sciatica is a common type of lumbar radiculopathy. Radiculopathy can also affect the nerve roots in the neck, causing arm symptoms.

Will it get better?

Many cases improve with time and non-surgical treatment. Persistent or worsening weakness needs prompt review.

Clinic locations

Please confirm the OPD day, timings and availability of this service when you book.

This page gives general information to help you understand this topic. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a consultation with a doctor.

In an emergency

If you or someone with you has sudden weakness or numbness, facial drooping, slurred speech, a seizure lasting more than 5 minutes, a sudden severe headache or loss of consciousness, call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately. Do not wait for an appointment or rely on this website.

Call 112

Related services

EMG

A test that checks how well the muscles, and the nerves that control them, are working.

View Details: EMG

Book an appointment or contact the clinic

Call or send a WhatsApp message to ask about appointment times at the Patna, Ara and Siwan clinics.

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