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Radiculopathy

Radiculopathy Treatment in Brooklyn, NY

Radiculopathy refers to pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that occurs when a spinal nerve root is irritated or compressed. Symptoms can affect the neck, arm, back, or leg depending on the level involved. Because radiculopathy can arise from multiple underlying causes, accurate diagnosis is essential before selecting treatment. At Motionis Medicine, radiculopathy is evaluated through a physician-led, diagnosis-first approach focused on identifying the primary pain generator and guiding appropriate non-surgical care.

Care is led by Dr. Tanuj Palvia, MD, a board-certified interventional pain medicine physician with over 15 years of experience in image-guided spine and nerve care.

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What Is Radiculopathy?

Radiculopathy is a condition caused by irritation, inflammation, or compression of a spinal nerve root as it exits the spine. It is commonly described based on the spinal region involved:

  • Cervical

    neck → arm symptoms

  • Thoracic

    mid-back → chest or trunk symptoms

  • Lumbar

    lower back → leg symptoms

Radiculopathy is not a diagnosis by itself; it describes a pattern of nerve-related symptoms that points to an underlying spinal condition.

Common Radiculopathy Symptoms

Symptoms vary based on the affected nerve root and may include:

Symptoms may be intermittent or constant and can overlap with other spine-related conditions.

  • Sharp, shooting, or burning pain along the nerve pathway

  • Numbness or tingling in the arm, hand, leg, or foot

  • Muscle weakness in the affected limb

  • Pain worsened by certain movements or positions

  • Sensory changes such as pins-and-needles sensations

Common Causes of Radiculopathy We Evaluate

Radiculopathy typically results from conditions that place pressure on spinal nerve roots, including:

  1. Herniated or bulging discs

  2. Degenerative disc disease

  3. Spinal stenosis

  4. Bone spurs (osteophytes)

  5. Facet joint-related inflammation

  6. Spondylolisthesis

  7. Post-surgical scarring or changes

How Radiculopathy Is Evaluated

Evaluation focuses on identifying the specific nerve root involved and the underlying cause of compression or irritation. A physician-led assessment may include:

  • Detailed clinical history and physical examination

  • Neurological testing of strength, sensation, and reflexes

  • Review of prior imaging (MRI, CT, X-ray), when available

  • Image-guided diagnostic nerve blocks, when appropriate

This structured approach helps differentiate radiculopathy from muscle-related pain or joint-mediated conditions.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Radiculopathy

Treatment recommendations depend on diagnosis, severity of symptoms, and functional goals. Non-surgical options may include:

All procedures are performed under fluoroscopic or ultrasound guidance for precision and safety and are selected as part of a broader care plan.

When a Specialist Evaluation May Help

You may benefit from a specialist evaluation if:

  • Nerve-related pain, numbness, or weakness persists

  • Symptoms radiate into the arm or leg

  • Physical therapy or medications have not provided relief

  • Imaging suggests nerve compression, but surgery is unclear or undesired

  • Symptoms interfere with work, sleep, or daily activities

A comprehensive evaluation can clarify the cause of radiculopathy and outline appropriate next steps.

Related Spine & Nerve Conditions

Schedule a Radiculopathy Evaluation

If nerve-related pain or weakness is affecting your mobility or quality of life, a comprehensive evaluation can help clarify your options and determine the most appropriate non-surgical care.

Book an Appointment