Sciatica / Radiculopathy

Radiculopathy describes symptoms produced by the pinching of a nerve root in the spinal column. Sciatica is one of the most common types of radiculopathy and refers to pain that originates in your lower back and travels through your buttocks and down the sciatic nerve – the largest single nerve in the body.
It’s usually caused when a herniated disc or bone spur in the spine presses on the nerve.
Pain originates in the spine and radiates down the back of the leg. Sciatica typically affects only one side of the body.
Medication for pain and physiotherapy are common treatments. Radiculopathy refers to nerve irritation caused by damage to the disc between the vertebrae. … When nerves are irritated in the low back from degenerative disc disease, the condition is called lumbar radiculopathy, and it often causes the commonly recognized “sciatica” pain that shoots down a lower extremity.
Treatment. Typically, radiculopathy is treatable without surgery. Depending on the severity of the radiculopathy and other health conditions, doctors may recommend certain medications, including: Treatments for radiculopathy may include pain medication and wearing a cervical collar.

Non-Surgical Treatment of Lumbar Radiculopathy

• Physical therapy and/or exercises that are designed to stabilize the spine and promote a more open space for spinal nerve roots are recommended.
• Medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce swelling and pain and analgesics to relieve pain.

Are You Eligible for Social Security Disability Benefits As a Result of Cervical Radiculopathy? … For people who suffer from this disease, eligibility for benefits depends on the exact symptoms you experience. The Social Security Administration(SSA) categorizes cervical radiculopathy under 1.04 Disorders of the Spine.