Radiculopathy

Abstract

Radicular pain and radiculopathy are two interchangeable terms, but not synonyms. Diagnosis of radiculopathy is mostly based on clinical finding in history and physical examination. Diagnostic imaging such as X-ray, CT scan, and MRI can be used to confirm the diagnosis. Red flags suggesting cauda equina syndrome should be ruled out. Management of radicular pain includes conservative treatment such as physical therapy and medications. Interventional procedures such as epidural steroid injections can be helpful to treat the pain and progress in physical therapy. Surgery might be indicated in the presence of red flags, neurological deficits, or in case of failure with conservative treatment and interventional procedures.