Occasionally my patients describe their pain as “ pinch nerve” or sciatica, if you do have that type of pains you are likely to have radiculopathy, but what does it means?
Understanding Radiculopathy and the Role of Manual Therapy in Recovery
Radiculopathy, commonly referred to as a pinched nerve, is a condition that stems from irritation or compression of nerve roots in the spinal column. This condition often results in symptoms like sharp pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness radiating to other areas of the body—most commonly the arms or legs. Radiculopathy can significantly impact daily life, making even routine activities challenging.
While traditional treatments like medications and surgery are options, manual therapy has emerged as an effective, non-invasive approach for managing radiculopathy symptoms and improving overall function. In this blog, we'll explore the nature of radiculopathy, delve into the science behind manual therapy, and highlight evidence supporting its efficacy. Additionally, you'll find video exercises designed to aid in recovery and prevent future nerve-related issues.
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What is Radiculopathy?
Radiculopathy occurs when spinal nerve roots become compressed or inflamed, often due to conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease. The symptoms vary depending on the location of the affected nerve root:
• Cervical Radiculopathy: Pain, weakness, or numbness radiates from the neck down to the arms and hands.
• Lumbar Radiculopathy: Sciatica-like symptoms, with pain and discomfort radiating from the lower back into the hips, legs, and sometimes the feet.
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How Manual Therapy Helps Radiculopathy
Manual therapy is a hands-on treatment approach performed by trained physical therapists, chiropractors, or osteopaths. Techniques like joint mobilization, myofascial release, and spinal manipulation aim to restore spinal alignment, relieve nerve pressure, and improve blood flow to the affected area.
Key Benefits of Manual Therapy for Radiculopathy:
• Alleviates pain by reducing pressure on the affected nerve root.
• Enhances mobility and flexibility in stiff joints or soft tissues.
• Promotes faster recovery by improving circulation and reducing inflammation.
• Prevents recurrence by addressing underlying musculoskeletal imbalances.
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External Resource about Radiculopathy
Some possible exercise videos
( These exercises seem simple and safe to me if done according to the instructions. However this is at the user`s own risk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d77gM3HIoXg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9-X9yfv5R8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEWZjTX7nu8&t=200s
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guide lines
https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng59
https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/NG59/chapter/Recommendations#non-invasive-treatments-for-low-back-pain-and-sciatica
References (for further reading)
Borrella-Andrés, S., Marqués-García, I., Lucha-López, M.O., Fanlo-Mazas, P., Hernández-Secorún, M., Pérez-Bellmunt, A., Tricás-Moreno, J.M. and Hidalgo-García, C. (2021). Manual Therapy as a Management of Cervical Radiculopathy: A Systematic Review. BioMed Research International, [online] 2021, p.9936981. doi:https://doi.org/10.1155/2021/9936981.
Danazumi, M.S., Bello, B., Yakasai, A.M. and Kaka, B. (2021). Two manual therapy techniques for management of lumbar radiculopathy: a randomized clinical trial. Journal of Osteopathic Medicine, [online] 121(4), pp.391–400. doi:https://doi.org/10.1515/jom-2020-0261.
Kuligowski, T., Skrzek, A. and Cieślik, B. (2021). Manual Therapy in Cervical and Lumbar Radiculopathy: A Systematic Review of the Literature. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, [online] 18(11), p.6176. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18116176.
Vanti, C., Panizzolo, A., Turone, L., Guccione, A.A., Violante, F.S., Pillastrini, P. and Bertozzi, L. (2020). Effectiveness of Mechanical Traction for Lumbar Radiculopathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Physical Therapy, 101(3). doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/ptj/pzaa231.