Inflammation of the nerve roots, symptoms, treatment. Inflammation of the nerve roots or sciatica, as correct

In this case, the complex develops pathological symptoms called neuralgia.

Neuralgia - pain along the affected nerve. It is necessary to distinguish the term from the common sciatica among the people. The latter is called the inflammatory process in the region of the spinal nerve root, sciatica is manifested not only by pain (neuralgia), but also by other characteristic symptoms.

It is worth saying that, although neuralgia can affect any nervous structure of the body, most often it accompanies sciatica.

The reasons

What causes inflammation of nerve endings and roots? The following conditions can be the causes of radiculitis and vertebral neuralgia:

Infectious diseases of the spine.
Injuries, accidents, traffic accidents.
Osteocondritis of the spine.
Osteoporosis and calcium deficiency.
Herniated disc.
Spondylolisthesis is a displacement of a vertebra.
Narrowing of the spinal canal.
Spondylitis.
Spondylarthrosis and bone osteophytes.
Spinal tumors.
Spinal osteomyelitis.

It should be borne in mind that inflammation can be caused by an infectious agent or a violation of anatomical interactions. In the second case, aseptic inflammation occurs, in the treatment of which it is not necessary to use antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs are enough.

The attending physician will help determine the true cause of sciatica.

Symptoms

If excessive force is suddenly applied to the spinal column and roots of the spinal nerves, acute sciatica occurs, the main symptom of the disease will be vertebral neuralgia.

With degenerative and metabolic disorders, the process is chronic, the roots are gradually pressured by an osteophyte, hernia, tumor, or other formation. Symptoms will gradually increase as the disease progresses.

It is worth figuring out how radiculitis of various parts of the spine will manifest itself, since further diagnosis and treatment will depend on this. Inflammation of the roots of the cervical and lumbosacral regions, for example, will have a completely different clinical picture.

Radiculitis of the cervical spine

Diseases of the cervical spine are not uncommon, since this segment of the back is actively involved in holding the head while walking, running, sitting at a table, working at a computer. The vertebrae in this part of the spine have a rather vulnerable structure, and at the same time they are in close interaction with important vessels and nerves.

If diseases of the spine have led to inflammation of the nerve root in the cervical part of the back, the following manifestations are likely to occur:

Pain in the back of the head, neck, aggravated by exertion, prolonged immobile work.
Pain in the scapula, along the clavicle, in the region of the shoulder joint.
Numbness, pain, impaired sensitivity in the hand. Radiculitis lower divisions neck is manifested by a violation of the brachial plexus, which is responsible for the innervation of the upper limb.
The loss muscle strength in the hand.
Headaches, migraines, dizziness are a sign of insufficient blood flow through the vertebral artery.
Blood pressure disorders.

Most often, the disease is still manifested by neuralgia - pain at the exit site of the root and along the nerve fibers. The remaining signs are attached if the nerve structures are strong pressure, or the inflammatory process becomes extensive.

Thoracic sciatica

The most rare form sciatica - damage to the thoracic region. The reason for this phenomenon is that a large number of vertebrae in the thoracic floor of the back take on part of the lost function, the disease is compensated for a long time.

In addition, in the thoracic region there are no such important structures as the nerve plexuses or the cauda equina, therefore only the spinal roots are involved in the process. Radiculitis of the thoracic region is manifested by the following symptoms:

Pain in the thoracic part of the back, aggravated by exertion.
Shootings along the chest, following the course of the ribs.
Intercostal neuralgia can even mimic heart disease, occurring on the left side of the chest.
Difficulty deep breath due to chest pain.

Poor symptoms lead to the fact that the pathological process is not diagnosed for a long time. Dangerous diseases can be detected too late, so at the first symptoms you need to see a doctor.

Radiculitis of the lumbar spine

The most common localization of sciatica is the region of the lumbosacral segment. This explains the large number of patients complaining of back pain.

The thing is that it is on the region of the lumbosacral floor that the most of loads during active movements, lifting weights, playing sports. Under the influence of these factors, degeneration occurs, which leads to aseptic inflammation of the nerve roots. Symptoms of lumbar sciatica:

Pain in the lower back after exercise, bending over, standing for a long time, lifting weights.
Shooting pain along the root - in the buttock, thigh, other parts of the lower limb.
Violation of skin sensitivity in the leg, numbness, a feeling of "crawling".
Pain on pressure on the spinous process of an involved vertebra.
Inability to stand for long periods.
Pain when trying to straighten the back during an attack of neuralgia.

Sciatica in itself causes a lot of inconvenience, but it is also a manifestation of another disease. If the cause of neuralgia progresses, it can involve the cauda equina nerve structure, which is responsible for the innervation of the bladder and rectum, in the process.

Lower back pain long time ignored by patients, but may be a symptom of a serious illness. It is necessary to consult a doctor in time for a full diagnosis of the disease.

Diagnostics

The diagnostic search for a doctor begins with a conversation and questioning of clinical symptoms, then the doctor will conduct an objective examination of the spine and specify neurological symptoms. Often, a consultation with a neurologist may be required to determine the cause of the disease.

The next step is to examine the patient's analyzes. A general analysis of blood and urine will allow to exclude or confirm the infectious process. At aseptic inflammation roots analyzes are uninformative. After laboratory research The patient will be referred for instrumental procedures. These include:

X-ray of the affected spine - excludes or confirms the pathology of bone formations, including spondyloarthritis, vertebral fractures, osteophytes, spondylolisthesis.
CT and MRI are high-precision methods that allow you to detect the process on initial stage. MRI perfectly detects the pathology of the vertebrae, therefore it is best method for the diagnosis of osteochondrosis.
X-ray contrast methods - myelography. It is rarely used due to the risk of possible complications.
Electromyography is an assessment of the conduction of electrical impulses during excitation of muscle fibers. It is used in the presence of symptoms from the upper or lower extremities.
Analysis cerebrospinal fluid. The puncture is associated with certain difficulties and the risk of complications, so it is used if necessary, suspected of infectious causes.

The listed list of studies varies depending on the data obtained, the doctor's suspicion of the presence of a certain pathology.

Treatment

Therapeutic approach to the treatment of sciatica last years seriously changed. Today, the priority is to find the cause of the disease and its treatment, and not just the elimination of symptoms. To the complex medical measures may include:

Medical treatment.
Spinal immobilization.
Physiotherapy.
Physiotherapy.
Massage.
Surgery.

To various methods resorted to only if there are indications for their use. Independent choice of treatment method is unacceptable.

Medical treatment

Tablets, injections and ointments can relieve the inflammatory syndrome, eliminate the manifestations of sciatica, but not get rid of the cause. Therefore, you should not be limited only to the use of medicines. Medicines aimed at eliminating sciatica include:

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Analgesics.
group vitamins
Muscle relaxants.
Chondroprotectors.

The method of administration of drugs depends on the severity of the pain syndrome. With low-intensity pain, it is enough to apply ointments and gels to the area of the affected segment. With severe neuralgia, one has to resort to the use of injectable forms.

Immobilization

For certain diseases, such as injuries and osteochondrosis pain syndrome from the side of the nerve root is associated with pressure on it of bone structures. In this case, it is necessary to relieve stress by applying the immobilization method.

The vertebrae can be separated from each other using skeletal traction - this is used for injuries, fractures.

Corset structures can also be used to immobilize the motor segment - a Shants collar for the neck, a lumbar belt for the lower back.

Providing rest for the nerve root allows you to reduce symptoms and eliminate the cause of the disease without further progression.

Physiotherapy treatment

In modern medical practice the significant influence of physiotherapy on the course of the inflammatory process is recognized. Thermal methods of exposure can reduce the intensity inflammatory response by increasing blood flow in the affected area, relaxing muscle fibers. Possible procedures:

Paraffin applications.
Mud applications.
Radon and hydrogen sulfide baths.
Electromyostimulation.
Electro- and phonophoresis of medicines.

It is worth remembering that the use of physiotherapy is dangerous in the presence of an infectious process. The doctor must prescribe treatment in accordance with contraindications.

Exercise therapy and massage

Therapeutic exercise allows you to restore the function of the spine after immobilization or surgical treatment. Exercise therapy also favorably affects the prognosis for osteochondrosis, disc herniation, and spondylolisthesis. When these causes are eliminated, the likelihood of progression of radiculitis and the frequency of its exacerbations are reduced.

It is worth visiting a qualified massage therapist after the exercise therapy complex. Massage allows you to relax muscle fibers, reduce the intensity of back pain.

Surgical treatment

If the above treatments have not been effective, your doctor may recommend surgical intervention for nerve root decompression.

Some diseases leading to sciatica can be absolute readings to the operation. These include tumors, vertebral fractures, severe forms osteochondrosis, osteophytes and other pathological processes.

Inflammation of the spine of another localization

Some patients associate back pain solely with sciatica. However, the inflammatory process in the spine may be of another localization. The following structures can be exposed to inflammation:

Vertebral bodies.
Intervertebral joints.
intervertebral discs.
Ligaments of the spine.
Back muscles.
Spinal cord, nerve plexuses.
Meninges.

Qualified specialists will help to distinguish between diseases, to choose the optimal treatment.

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Radicular syndrome: symptoms and treatment

Radicular syndrome - the main symptoms:

Skin redness
Lower back pain
Stomach ache
sweating
Amyotrophy
Heartache
Pain in the spine
Pain syndrome
Numbness in the affected area
Puffiness of the skin
Pain in the limbs
Loss of sensation
Violation of pain sensitivity
Difficulty in making movements
Shooting pain

Radicular syndrome is a complex of symptoms that occur in the process of squeezing the spinal roots (that is, nerves) in those places where they branch off from the spinal cord. The radicular syndrome, the symptoms of which are somewhat contradictory in its definition, is in itself a sign of many different diseases, which makes it important to diagnose it in a timely manner and prescribe appropriate treatment.

general description

Considered by us neurological syndrome occurs quite often. Compression (squeezing) of the nerves leads to a variety of pains, which, accordingly, occur in a variety of places: in the limbs, in the neck, in the lower back. Often, pain can also occur in the area of certain internal organs, for example, in the area of \u200b\u200bthe stomach or heart.

Below you can consider what the spinal root looks like, respectively, determining the effect of the lesion in the event of one.

Causes of radicular syndrome

Damage to the spinal roots can be triggered by a number of conditions, among which we highlight the following:

Spinal hernia;
Osteochondrosis;
Certain types of birth defects that are relevant for the structure of the spine;
Constant overloads concerning the spinal column;
Sedentary lifestyle;
Spondylarthrosis;
Injuries, cicatricial changes and tumors;
Vertebral fractures resulting from osteoporosis;
Changes in hormonal status;
Vertebral injuries infectious nature impacts (for example, changes provoked by osteomyelitis or tuberculosis);
Hypothermia.

Typically, there is radicular syndrome not immediately after exposure to one or another specified cause. Initially, it is preceded by the development of changes in the field intervertebral discs, they, in turn, provoke the occurrence of hernias. Further, the hernia, with its own displacement, begins to compress the spinal root, which leads to difficulty in outflow from it. venous blood. This subsequently leads to the development of inflammation of a non-infectious nature. Thus, the nerve and the tissues around it begin to surround the formed adhesions.

Radicular syndrome: symptoms

The first, and at the same time the most characteristic symptom of radicular syndrome, is the appearance of pain, which is concentrated along the course of a particular nerve. So, when a process is formed in the cervical region, pain, respectively, occurs in the arm and neck. The process in the thoracic region provokes back pain, in some cases pains concentrated in the stomach or heart area become possible (these pains disappear only when the radicular syndrome itself is eliminated). The process in the lumbar region leads to pain in the lumbar region and buttocks, as well as in the lower extremities.

Movement, like lifting weights, leads to increased pain. In some cases, the pain is characterized as "shooting", which is accompanied by its distribution to various parts of the body, this is in particular due to the location of a particular nerve. A backache that occurs in the lumbar region is called lumbago. In this case, the pain may be permanent, but its intensification in any case occurs in the event of any careless movement.

Provoking pain attacks can not only physical stress, but also emotional stress, in addition to this, hypothermia also has an effect on its appearance. In some cases, the onset of pain occurs at night, as well as during sleep, which in particular is accompanied by swelling of the skin and its redness, and increased sweating is also noted.

Another sign accompanying the radicular syndrome manifests itself as a violation of sensitivity that occurs in the zone of innervation of the nerve in question. So, a slight tingling with a needle in the indicated zone is accompanied by a sharp decrease in sensitivity, which is observed when compared with an area similar, but located on the other side.

Additionally, among the signs, there is also a movement disorder that occurs with muscle changes. The latter are provoked by damage to the nerves innervating them. Muscles dry out, respectively, they atrophy. In addition, their weakness is noted, which in some cases is also determined visually, especially when comparing both limbs.

Diagnosis of radicular syndrome

In diagnosing radicular syndrome, it is initially important to determine the cause that provokes compression of the spinal nerve. Thanks to research on movement and sensitivity disorders, it is determined within which particular vertebrae the damage has formed. For example, if the root is squeezed in the region of the fifth lumbar vertebra, then this provokes pain in the lower back (ie, lumbalgia). This pain, respectively, gives along the outer surface of the thigh, as well as along the lower leg to the toes (2,3,4). Already this symptom acquires a slightly different definition - lumbar ischialgia.

Nerve damage due to infectious diseases, the process can be accompanied additional symptoms in the form of fever and fever, it, in particular, is concentrated in the region of the root involved in the pathological process.

As a standard instrumental method that provides the possibility of diagnosing the syndrome we are considering, a general radiography of the spine is used. In particular, the focus of diagnosis covers the results of radiography in the lateral and anterior projections. Meanwhile, the most informative and at the same time sensitive diagnostic method today is MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). Whatever method of diagnosis is chosen, the basis for determining the diagnosis is still directly those clinical symptoms that are relevant in each specific case for the patient.

Treatment of radicular syndrome

Treatment methods for radicular syndrome are determined solely on the basis of a consideration of the possible causes, as well as the selection of the main one, that is, the one that, in fact, provoked this syndrome. Patients are assigned the strictest bed rest, which should lie exclusively on a hard surface. Additionally assigned:

Analgesics (ketorol, baralgin). Their use allows to eliminate/reduce the pronounced painful manifestations.
Anti-inflammatory nonsteroidal drugs(Nurofen, Diclofenac, Movalis). With their help, not only the inflammation formed in areas with damaged nerves is reduced, but also pain is relieved. Their long-term use, meanwhile, is associated with a number of side effects. By the way, the use of drugs of this type is possible in the form of ointments, gels (fastum, ketonal), which, accordingly, provides for their external use while reducing possible adverse effects.
Muscle relaxants - drugs designed to eliminate muscle spasms. They can only be used as directed by a doctor.
Vitamins corresponding to group B. Their action is focused on improving metabolic processes in nerve tissues.
Chondroprotectors are drugs for stimulating recovery processes and slowing down cartilage destruction in the area of intervertebral joints.
Non-drug treatment (massage, gymnastics, physiotherapy, reflexology). These treatment options are relevant in all cases except tumors.

Some diseases may require surgical intervention, which is possible with neoplasms and intervertebral hernias.

To diagnose radicular syndrome, as well as to prescribe adequate treatment, you need to contact a neurologist.

If you think that you have radicular syndrome and the symptoms characteristic of this disease, then a neurologist can help you.

We also suggest using our online disease diagnostic service, which, based on the symptoms entered, selects probable diseases.

Intercostal neuralgia is a painful condition caused by irritation or compression of the intercostal nerves. Intercostal neuralgia, the symptoms of which are usually observed in older people, is explained by age-related changes that are relevant to the state of their vessels. As for children, this disease is extremely rare in them.

Radiculitis is a disease of the nervous system in which the roots of the spinal nerves are affected. Radiculitis, the main symptom of which is pain in the neck or back (depending on such a lesion), can also be referred to in medical practice as radiculopathy.

Sciatica is inflammation of the sciatic nerve. In some sources, the disease may be referred to as sciatic neuralgia or sciatica. The most characteristic symptom for this ailment is back pain, which radiates to the lower limb. The main risk group is people over 30 years of age. In more early age the disease is almost never diagnosed.

Lymphocytic leukemia is a malignant lesion that occurs in the lymphatic tissue. It is characterized by the accumulation of tumor lymphocytes in the lymph nodes, in the peripheral blood and in the bone marrow. acute form Lymphocytic leukemia has recently been classified as a "childhood" disease due to its susceptibility mainly to patients aged two to four years. Today, lymphocytic leukemia, the symptoms of which are characterized by their own specificity, is observed more often among adults.

Raynaud's disease is a disorder of the paroxysmal type in the arterial blood supply to the feet and / or hands, which occurs against the background of prolonged exposure to stress, cold, and some other factors. Raynaud's disease, the symptoms of which are more common among women, is distinguished primarily by the symmetry of the lesion of the limbs.

With the help of exercise and abstinence, most people can do without medicine.

Symptoms and treatment of human diseases

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Questions and suggestions:

Inflammation of the nerve roots or sciatica, which is correct?

Many have heard of such a disease as sciatica. However, its full name sounds like inflammation of the nerve roots or radicular syndrome (the concept of sciatica is not applicable to all roots). This disease is characteristic of any age and is manifested by severe pain in the area of inflammation, however, first things first.

general description

The human nervous system is a complex mechanism that has a branched structure. At the end of this structure is the root and similar roots in the body 62, in addition, the system includes fibers and bundles. These nerve fibers roots and bundles act as messengers. In the event of any impact on the body (heat, cold, pain, etc.), this impulse is transmitted to spinal cord after which it is transmitted to the brain. It happens almost instantly.

The anatomy of the nerve roots is simple. There are two subspecies:

The anterior ones are formed by axons of efferent neurons. The main function that the anterior roots perform is motor activity and reflex contractions.

Damage to the anterior roots does not cause pain in a person, but leads to movement disorders and reflex disturbances. Nevertheless, among this group there are also afferent fibers (responsible for sensitivity). There are not so many of them, but when they are damaged, severe pain can occur. These fibers can come out in the region of the posterior roots.

The posterior roots, in turn, consist of afferent fibers and are responsible for sensitivity and pain. It is damage to these nerves that causes severe pain. In addition to the pain reaction, there may be a loss of sensation in that part of the body for which the affected nerve is responsible.

Precisely for the reason internal structure inflammation of the nerve roots is primarily associated with vertebral disorders (back pain, etc.)

In addition, according to the location, the roots are divided into:

cervical (cervical, cervicobrachial, cervicothoracic);
Good (innervate the chest around);
lumbar;
sacral (innervate the sacrum);
coccygeal.

The roots located in the lumbar and sacral region are often combined into one subspecies - lumbosacral.

The reasons

There are several reasons that can provoke inflammation, from a banal pinched nerve root in the lumbar spine to the presence of a hidden disease that provokes the formation of a hernia or tumor.

The root can become inflamed for the following reasons:

infectious diseases affecting the vertebra;
trauma (in this situation, a fragment or a displaced vertebra can pinch the nerve);
osteocondritis of the spine;
osteoporosis;
herniated disc;
displacement of the vertebrae;
narrowing of the spinal canal;
osteomyelitis;
tumor in the spine;
hypothermia (in this situation, as such, there is no infringement, perhaps the development of an inflammatory process);
hormonal disorders;
sedentary image life;
birth defects (narrow opening through which the nerve passes, etc.).

The presence of a concomitant problem in the body does not immediately cause neuralgia, it takes time. For example, an intervertebral hernia begins to grow and gradually compresses the nerve root, thereby pinching it, disrupting the function of transmitting nerve impulses.

Symptoms

The nerve roots of the spine are located in the body in certain places, which indicates the classification of the inflammatory process. So, the following variants of the disease are distinguished:

cervical;
chest;
lumbar;
mixed (cervical-brachial, lumbosacral, etc.).

Inflammatory process may occur as a result of exposure to the spine from the outside, then we are talking about the secondary type of illness, and directly due to problems with the nervous system, then we are talking about the primary type of illness.

Symptoms for each subspecies are individual, but there are symptoms that are common to all, including:

increase in body temperature;
pain syndrome along the course of the nerve;
increased pain during sharp turns of the body, coughing;
restriction in movements (depending on the type of ailment);
decreased sensitivity;
weakness;
increased pain on palpation of the spinal spinal column.

cervical sciatica

The cervical region is located as close as possible to the vessels of the head, therefore, when the roots of the cervical region are squeezed, the pain spreads towards the back of the head and parietal region. In addition, pain in the shoulder blade or arm can be diagnosed.

Signs of cervical sciatica:

loss of sensation in the fingertips;
pain in case of a change in the position of the hands or movement of the shoulder blades;
difficulty breathing;
pain similar to heart;
burning, tingling and tension in the muscles of the neck;
violation of posture;
change in the neck.

Due to the proximity of the neck to the head, the following manifestations are possible:

migraine;
nausea;
vomit;
dizziness;
increase in pressure.

Thoracic sciatica

The least common disease, since inflammation in the thoracic region is one of the rarest manifestations. Usually associated with infectious diseases respiratory system, as well as with herpes ganglia.

aching pain;
breathing problems (it is difficult for the patient to breathe);
pain is localized in the region of the ribs;
increase or decrease in sensitivity at the site of pinching;
possibly a vegetative manifestation (bubble rash at the site of pinching).

Lumbar sciatica

This disease is one of the most common. The nerve roots of the lumbar region suffer from pinching more often than others due to large loads on this department and have the following symptoms:

tension in the muscles of the lower back;
sudden and gradually increasing pain;
shooting pain in the leg or buttock;
numbness of the toes;
pain syndrome during back extension.

The pain does not allow the patient for a long time be in a standing position, forcing him to take a sitting or lying position.

Diagnostics

The study of the patient's condition begins with the collection of anamnesis of the patient. So, the doctor conducts a survey and initial examination of the patient, Special attention referring to the localization of pain and the nature of its occurrence.

The standard set of tests for all medical institutions (general clinical blood test, urine test) is not very informative and the specialist prescribes advanced diagnostics, which includes:

x-ray of the inflamed spine;
computed tomography (CT);
magnetic resonance imaging (MRI);
study of the spinal fluid through a puncture of the spinal cord;
electromyography;
myelography (a study based on the use of contrast fluid).

Treatment

Currently, the approach to the treatment of inflammation or pinched roots has changed significantly. The basis is not the elimination (blockade) of the pain syndrome, but the identification and elimination of the cause of pain.

There are the following treatment options:

Medical (conservative) treatment.
Operative (surgical) intervention.

The above options are the basis, and in addition, physiotherapeutic procedures, immobilization therapy, as well as folk remedies can be used.

Medical therapy

This complex medical procedures is intended not to treat the cause, but to eliminate the consequence, and includes the appointment of the following drugs:

non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;
analgesics;
a complex of vitamins;
muscle relaxants;
chondroprotectors.

Depending on the severity of the disease, certain medicinal methods are used. For example, with a moderate pain syndrome, it is enough to apply an ointment to the site of pain localization or take a pill, while severe pain requires the administration of a medicine through an injection (shot).

Concomitant treatment

In the case of sciatica, it is impossible to get by with tablets and ointments alone, complex treatment is necessary, which includes:

physiotherapy treatment (UHF, ultraviolet irradiation, mud applications, radon and hydrogen sulfide baths, electromyostimulation, phonophoresis, electrophoresis);
physiotherapy exercises (LFK);
massotherapy;
immobilization.

Physiotherapy has a beneficial effect on the body, helping to relieve inflammation, relaxing muscle fibers and increasing blood flow.

Immobilization is carried out through the use of various corsets and restraints.

As for exercise therapy and massage, they are necessary for the rehabilitation of the patient after immobilization and surgery.

Surgical method

This method is necessary in the case when it is impossible to achieve the elimination of the cause in another way. It is not always possible to change the patient's condition with pills alone.

So, one of the most common operations is decompression of the nerve root. Decompression is necessary when it is not possible to release it from pressure by physiotherapy or immobilization (as a rule, this happens due to trauma or tumor processes).

Prevention and prognosis

After the end of medical or surgical treatment, it is necessary to exclude the possibility re-development disease, for which the patient is required to comply with the following recommendations:

weight loss (carried out as part of reducing the load on the spine and legs);
reduce weight lifting
use more opportunities for walking;
avoid hypothermia;
pay attention to posture (curvature of the spine is unacceptable).

The prognosis of this disease in most cases is favorable. However, in case untimely treatment or his total absence sciatica can flow into the chronic phase, which is treated longer than usual.

So, inflammation of the nerve roots is a rather unpleasant, but curable disease that must be treated under the supervision of a specialist. In the absence of proper treatment, severe pain is not ruled out. Do not joke with your body, treat yourself correctly!

Inflammation of the roots of the spinal nerves - where and how they are pinched, causes, treatment

The spine is an organ responsible for the normal functioning of the musculoskeletal system and internal organs, each of which has a network of nerve endings.

Nerve trunks originate from the roots coming from the posterior and anterior horns of the spinal cord.

There are 62 nerve roots in the spine, respectively, there are 31 pairs of them.

The roots of the spinal nerves transmit signals from the internal organs to the spinal cord, and then to the brain - the central "control system" of the body.

The “commands” coming from the brain are first received by the spinal cord, which distributes them throughout the body through the nerve endings.

Functions of the spinal roots and deviations from the norm

The specified number of paired roots is due to the structure of the spinal column. The spinal roots extend from the vertebrae of the neck (8 pairs), from the vertebral segments of the chest (12 pairs), lower back (5 pairs), sacrum (5 pairs), coccyx (1 pair).

Inflammatory processes in these areas lead to pinching of nerve fibers, severe pain and disruption of the innervation of internal organs, arms, legs, and skin.

The posterior roots regulate the activity of pain receptors and are responsible for sensory perception. They are made up of afferent fibers. When the posterior roots are damaged, neurological disorders are observed. With a strong compression of these fibers, an acute pain syndrome develops, and muscle trophism is disturbed. With any attempt to move, the pain intensifies, as compression on the spinal nerve increases. If it's damaged, motor functions are preserved, but the sensitivity of skin receptors is lost.
The anterior roots are formed by the axons of efferent neurons. They are responsible for movements and reflexes, contractions of ligaments. Without these fibers, motor activity would be impossible: a person could not pick up objects, walk, run, or perform physical work. The nerve formed from the anterior roots of the spinal cord, when damaged and excised, does not cause pain, except in cases of recurrent reception (in the anterior root of the spinal nerve, afferent fibers can be found passing through it, then turning into back spine and going to the spinal cord). Their damage causes severe pain, which disappears when 2-3 posterior roots are excised.

Squeezing and infringement of the posterior and anterior roots becomes not only the cause of a painful condition, but also, if left untreated, leads to disability.

If an arm or leg loses sensation, soft tissues goosebumps and numbness appear, movements are limited in them - you need to urgently consult a doctor to establish an accurate diagnosis.

disease in advanced stage may require a radical method of solving the problem - surgical intervention.

The reasons

Since the roots contain fibers on which the receptor sensitivity of soft tissues and the functioning of the musculoskeletal system depend, immediate hospitalization and a thorough examination of the patient make it possible to bypass the worst - paralysis of the arms and legs, atrophy of muscle tissues.

In the process diagnostic measures the true causes of the pathological condition are also established. It:

Protrusions and hernias of intervertebral discs.
Injuries.
Degenerative changes in bone tissue caused by osteochondrosis, spondylosis, osteoporosis, arthritis.
Tumor formations.
Postoperative complications.
Wrong posture.
A long static posture in which a person stays regularly for several hours.

Data from MRI, CT, X-ray and ultrasound examinations and other diagnostic measures allow us to assess the degree of damage to the spinal roots, determine the location of the process, after which specialists decide on the direction of treatment and prescribe a set of treatment procedures.

Treatment

Traditional methods of therapy consist of taking painkillers and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, limiting motor activity, using muscle relaxants, and vitamin preparations.

But if the symptoms do not lose their severity and continue to grow, then specialists can decide on the advisability of surgical intervention. It can be:

Microdiscectomy.
Operative root decompression.
Pulse radiofrequency ablation (Latin for the word "ablation" translates as "taking away").

Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive method that does not violate the structure of nerve fibers, but allows them to be released from compression by removing part of the bone tissue, due to which the inflammatory process began.

Operative root decompression is used for hernias and tumors, which, increasing in size, cause infringement of nerve fibers. The purpose of the operation is to remove partially or completely these formations.

Pulsed radiofrequency ablation in 80% of cases gives the desired result, because the integrity of the vertebral segments is not violated during the operation.

By puncture, an electrode is inserted into the area of the hernial formation, and cold plasma pulses flow through it. The hernia begins to "melt", noticeably decreases in size and in some cases is set back.

But this is possible if the fibrous ring has not ruptured, and the gelatinous contents remain within this shell.

Vertebral pathologies are dangerous because any delay and ignoring a deteriorating condition can lead to a real disaster. The spinal cord is inextricably linked to brain structures heads.

Sympathetic nerve fibers that run from the vertebral segments to the internal organs transmit signals about malfunctions to the "main center".

And if the work of any of the links in this chain is disrupted, then the consequences of a late visit to the doctors may have to be corrected for all the remaining years.

By the way, now you can get free of charge my e-books and courses that will help you improve your health and well-being.

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In neurology, there is such a thing as lumbar radicular syndrome, which is a whole complex of neurological symptoms and signs that arise due to compression of the nerve branches in the spinal canal of the spine.

As a rule, neurological pathology has a chronic course of a progressive nature, and is the most common symptom among all pain syndromes (dorsopathies) occurring in various parts of the spinal column.

Before treating radicular syndrome, it is necessary to establish the clinical symptoms and causes of neurology. It is believed that a causal relationship neurological pathology consists in the progressive course of osteochondrosis in the lumbar spine, in which various degenerative-dystrophic processes are formed, for example, the formation of osteophytes, hernias in the vertebra or protrusion of inter spinal canal.

Inflammation of the nerve roots is the result of a deformed state of the intervertebral discs, which occurs due to insufficient blood supply and limited metabolic functions in the body of the spine. Due to degenerative transformations, the height of the intervertebral disc changes, which entails its axial displacement, and as a result, compression of the soft tissues of adjacent articular segments. Most often, compression affects the spinal nerve at the outlet of the bone canal of the spine, provoking inflammation of the roots, which are the most sensitive nerve formations of the spinal system. The technical reason for the inflammatory process is the compression of the entire neurovascular system passing through the channels of the lumbar spine.

Other contributing factors to the disease include:

infectious lesion of the articular components of the lower back;
the result of weakening of the bone tissue after various injuries and diseases;
static overvoltage and low activity of the lumbar zone;
hormonal failure and endocrine disorders;
cicatricial formations, tumors;
hypothermia of the osteoarticular elements of the vertebral section.

for inadequate development connective tissue, leading to inflammation of the root, can be influenced by a hereditary factor, as the most actively forming a progressive state of radiculopathy (radicular syndrome of the lumbar spine). Improper nutrition can bring the process of degeneration of articular tissues closer, when the body does not receive enough vitamin and mineral microcomponents, as well as alcohol abuse, which will significantly accelerate tissue degeneration of the spine.

Symptoms of nerve root compression

Pain varying degrees intensity is the main symptom of lumbar radicular syndrome. Treatment of a neurological condition is impossible without determining the complete clinical picture. In the place of infringement of the nerve root, the pain attack responds: with sharp, cutting, pulsating, aching or pulling pain, which is aggravated by any active physical actions: walking, turning, bending over, coughing and sneezing. The pain syndrome has not only local localization in the lumbar zone. Along the course of the nerve branch, a sharp pain can spread to the gluteal region, the piriformis muscle and the inner thigh.

It is also noted that a sensitivity disorder (paresthesia) occurs, and, in the lower extremities, expressed as tingling, numbness, crawling in the lower articular parts of the skeletal frame. Sometimes an increase in pain syndrome is accompanied by vegetative processes, in the form of swelling, redness of the skin, sweating of the body, and so on.

Irradiation of pain in the pelvic area and inguinal zone, causes difficulty in defecation, urination, and also weakens sexual sensitivity human body.

Violation of the innervation of the nerve root provides a person not only with reduced sensitivity to external stimuli, but also causes muscle atrophy of the affected segments of the spine. Such "drying" of the anatomical organs limits their mobility and physical activity.

Diagnostics

It is impossible to provide the correct therapeutic treatment of radicular syndrome in the lumbar spine without a high-quality diagnostic examination. Clinical data confirming the state of the nerve root is a fundamental factor when choosing a drug or physiotherapeutic effect. Only instrumental diagnostics, with a high degree of probability, allows you to correctly determine the location of the neurological disorder. However, on visual inspection experienced specialist will always be able to determine the radicular syndrome of the lumbar in certain areas of the spinal column:

Compressive pressure of the spinal nerve branch at the level of L1-L3 vertebrae is pain and / or discomfort in the lower back, in the perineum, lower abdomen, inner and front surfaces of the thigh, as well as their numbness and weakened sensitivity.
Damage to the spinal zone at the level of the L4 vertebra is atrophy of the quadriceps muscle, paresthesia of the outer femoral surface, pain in the knees and lower legs, which forms an unsteady gait and/or lameness.
The compression state in the L5 vertebra is determined by painful sensations in the outer surface of the thigh and lower leg, and also provokes pain symptoms in the inner part of the foot, while disrupting the entire functional work of the musculoskeletal system of the affected limb.

Therapeutic measures are prescribed after the identification of all etiological factors, and only after instrumental diagnosis of radicular syndrome, which includes following methods clinical examination:

X-ray scanning in two projection planes, direct and lateral, allowing to determine the place of narrowing and possible infringement of the intervertebral elements.
Clinical signs that limit the lumen of the spinal canal are detected using an X-ray contrast study - myelography of the spinal cord.
A more informative picture of a pathological disorder of the vertebrae and intervertebral discs is given, which determines the degree of narrowing and damage to the neurovascular bundles of the spine.

Comprehensive diagnostic examination will contribute to the qualitative restoration of articular elements and tissue structures of the spinal system.

Treatment

Drug treatment of radicular syndrome of nerve branches is based on the elimination of pain symptoms and a decrease in the area of inflammation in the affected areas. Cupping (radicular blockade) acute inflammation allows you to prevent the progression of neurological pathology, and reduce the swelling of the vascular system.

The conservative method of therapeutic action includes:

The use of painkillers, pharmacological treatments (analgesics): Baralgin, Ketorol, etc.
Inflammatory processes are eliminated with the help of - Nimesclid, Movalis, Diclofenac, etc.
Novocaine blockades are an obligatory process of complex therapeutic treatment.
Muscle relaxants (Sirdalud, Mycocalm, etc.) eliminate antispasmodic muscle tension, which improves the main blood supply to the affected areas of the spine.
Normalize metabolic processes and trophism of nerve branches, as well as to improve their impulses, vitamin combinations based on vitamins B1, B6 and B12 allow.

The final stage complex therapy is therapeutic gymnastics, physiotherapy, massage, and special exercises with radicular syndrome.

On a note! When chronic pathology leading to immobilization of the musculoskeletal system, it is provided surgical intervention.

Therapeutic prevention of radiculopathy

Basically, the infringement of the spinal roots is a problem of the chronic course of concomitant neurological diseases that need to be treated promptly. After eliminating the pain symptoms and improving the condition, doctors recommend that they take a closer look at their health. During rest or sleep, a special orthopedic mattress from a certified manufacturer is needed to prevent spinal deformity.

All fried, salted, smoked and pickled foods are excluded from the diet. A prerequisite is the control of body weight, since fat people most often subject to pathological disorders of the vertebral system.

Daily Complex therapeutic exercises allows you to strengthen the vertebral base. We recommend for consideration an effective complex of therapeutic exercises, which can be carried out independently at home:

Starting position, lying on your back. With outstretched arms and straight legs, it is necessary to contract the abdominal muscles 15-20 times.
Starting position lying. Leaning on the elbow joints, try to alternately touch the chest with the knee. Repeat the exercise 10-15 times.
The starting position is the same. Bending your knees, you need to take them to the right side, be sure to touch the floor. The same procedure must be performed on the other side. The exercise is repeated 5-10 times.
Starting position, palms and knees on the floor. Having maximally arched your back, it is necessary to alternately lift the straightened right and left legs up. The exercise is repeated 10-15 times.
In a sitting position on the floor, it is necessary to perform tilts and turns of the body 15-20 times.

Daily doing such a complex physiotherapy exercises can significantly strengthen the spine, and provide optimal clearance in the intervertebral discs for healthy functioning blood vessels and nerve endings.

ethnoscience

In addition to rational nutrition and therapeutic exercises, it is recommended to use traditional medicine.

Back pain is a common complaint of people who are forced to seek medical help.

Experts note that in almost 90% of cases, the cause of such pain is a disease of the spine.

One of them is lumbar radicular syndrome, which is a consequence of osteochondrosis.

What it is

Lumbar radicular syndrome occurs as a result of damage to the nerves of the spinal cord, accompanied by characteristic pain symptoms and requires complex treatment.
The deforming effect of this process occurs in the lumbar region of the spinal column. The disease develops slowly, its intensity increases gradually, in contrast to herniated discs or spinal injuries.
Being the supporting structure of the whole body, the lumbosacral region experiences heavy loads.
It is strong enough, but over time undergoes changes in the structure. Most often, the metabolism in the cartilage is disturbed, and the possibility of its recovery after exercise is reduced.

The disease appears in the intervertebral discs, which are most susceptible to such changes. The development of osteochondrosis begins, and, as a result, radicular syndrome.

The cartilage is destroyed, a hernia appears, and in this place there is pressure on the nerve that runs along the spine.

The nerve roots of the lumbar go to the legs, respectively, their sensitivity and the ability to move are disturbed. The more the nerve is compressed, the worse the pain.

The structure of the lumbar spine

To understand how and why the disease manifests itself, you need to know the structure and function of the lumbar spine.
This section contains five lumbar vertebrae. They are located one above the other, forming a normal lordosis (anterior bend). The last fifth vertebra connects to the sacrum.
Normally, there are intervertebral discs between the vertebrae, which act as a kind of shock absorber. On the inside of the vertebral segments there are intervertebral foramens where the spinal nerve passes.
When the deformation of the intervertebral discs occurs, the spine sags, the holes narrow, the process captures the nerve, which leads to pain. The more damaged the nerve, the stronger the consequences.

Reasons for development

Deformation of the vertebral discs can ultimately lead to the formation of bone growths at the edges of the vertebral segments. Further, when the disc ruptures, a hernia is formed.

With mechanical compression of the hernia and bone growths of the roots of the nerve endings, strong pain sensations are observed.

At the site of damage, blood flow is disturbed, edema of structures is formed, which makes you feel even more pain, which, spreading through the nerves, reaches the very tips of the legs.

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The main reason - osteochondrosis of the lumbar - responds with radicular syndrome, which requires serious treatment.

Can also lead to radicular syndrome the following reasons:

load on the back during pregnancy or obesity;
violation of the normal position of the spine (scoliosis);
congenital pathology lumbar spine, foot deformity;
hypodynamic lifestyle, frequent static loads;
the presence of infectious diseases, causing inflammation, in particular osteomyelitis (thinning of bones and cartilage);
wearing shoes with high heels, giving excessive pressure on the spine;
injuries and their consequences;
physical labor with weight lifting;
hypothermia;
lack of liquid in the diet and consumption a large number salty food.

Against the background of spinal deformities that led to osteochondrosis, these causes lead to radicular syndrome. In this case, it is the lumbar region that suffers the most. This is explained by the following points:

the impact of the maximum load on this department;
the lower back is a support for the higher parts of the spinal column;
the segments of the lumbar region are larger than the others; large blood vessels and nerve endings pass here;
the lower back is very mobile, and the muscular corset in this place is rather weak; with a wide range of motion, displacement occurs easily.

Experts distinguish three types of disease with radicular syndrome, exciting the lumbar, cervical and thoracic spine.

Among them, osteochondrosis of the thoracic spine with radicular syndrome is very rare, and osteochondrosis of the lumbar spine is the most painful.

Symptoms

Symptoms of the disease are divided into two types: general and concomitant (depending on the affected segment).

They are always accompanied by the main symptom of the disease - pain.

Radicular syndrome of the lumbar spine has the following clinical symptoms:

at the site of compression of the diseased nerve root, severe pain is felt, which spreads to the lower extremities;
sensitivity is disturbed along the course of the nerve, which manifests itself in the form of numbness, goosebumps;
the ability to perform voluntary movements (paresis) is lost, resulting from a violation of the blood circulation of the root spinal nerve;
against the background of nerve damage, muscle weakness is observed, leading to atrophy;
change skin(pallor, blueness).

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The nature of the discomfort in radicular syndrome is one-sided, pain attacks different nature.

Sometimes unpleasant sensations practically do not let go, they spread along the course of the nerve. There are lumbago, when pain is given to the legs, buttocks, stomach.

The general pain syndrome is determined by how much the nerve root is affected, and which concomitant symptoms he is accompanied.

The strength of the pain increases if the patient makes sudden movements and turns with the body, lifts weights. The disease can worsen with hypothermia and a stressful situation.

Which part of the lower back will be painful depends on the zone of pinching of the nerve root. The following departments are distinguished:

If the nerve ending of the first / third segment is damaged, the abdomen, lower back, inner part hips, groin area. The skin may become numb or pimple-like.
Pinching of the nerve process of the fourth segment will be marked by an unpleasant sensation in the lower back, hips, knee joint and shins in front. The knee is very painful, the anterior muscle becomes hard.
The root of the fifth segment causes pain when pinched inner surface skin of the thigh and lower leg, descends down to the foot. The thumb is numb. The sole becomes painful, does not withstand the load of the body.

In case of spinal disease with radicular syndrome, rest on the opposite side of the diseased side and calm movements, excluding heavy loads, are less inconvenient.

If the nerve root is affected by any infection, then the main and accompanying symptoms will be accompanied by an increase in temperature at the site of the disease.

Diagnostics

If there is pain in the spine, then this may be the cause various diseases. Proper Treatment however, it can be prescribed only after a diagnosis has been made.

The exact cause of pinched nerve endings in the spinal cord can be determined during diagnosis. It includes the following points:

medical examination;
study of anamnesis;
general examination methods.

The main method will be an x-ray examination of the lumbar spine. It is carried out from two sides: in front and on the side.

If the x-ray does not give results or the diagnosis needs to be clarified, then an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is performed.

Treatment of the disease

Treatment of lumbar radicular syndrome consists of the following activities:

elimination of the cause of the disease;
relief of pain;
restoration of the affected area of the spine.

These activities are provided by therapies that include:

providing rest;
taking medicines;
massage and physiotherapy;
exercise therapy ( therapeutic gymnastics).

This disease is a symptom complex of a number of manifestations associated with the destructive processes of the spine. Often, the radicular syndrome makes itself felt with such multiple and varied signs that a serious differential diagnosis is required to clarify the causes of the pathology. Therefore, a timely visit to a specialist is so important.

A pinched nerve is a very serious condition that requires urgent medical attention. You should contact a neurologist who will conduct an examination, carry out a number of diagnostic measures, prescribe treatment, and monitor its progress. Don't try to help yourself on your own. Signs of radicular syndrome may indicate other diseases provoked by similar phenomena. Only an experienced specialist can understand here.

The clinical picture usually clearly indicates what a radicular syndrome is. The main factor in the development of this condition is a pinched nerve in the spine. It can arise for a number of reasons. Usually these include osteochondrosis. But, in addition, it can be:

heavy physical work;
long stay in an uncomfortable position;
hypodynamia;
hormonal imbalance;
cold.

A pinched nerve in the spine does not manifest itself immediately. Therefore, it is sometimes difficult to determine the cause of its occurrence. The pathogenic factor serves only as an impetus to the onset of degenerative changes in the cartilage tissue and the nerve roots extending from it. Edema occurs, develops venous congestion, a strong inflammatory process is formed, in which all surrounding tissues are involved.

This is a symptom complex associated with the occurrence of an extensive pathological process of the spine, affecting the root. When a nerve is pinched in the back, the resulting syndrome usually accompanies a triad, which includes: pain; change in sensitivity in the affected area (on the opposite side, it is completely preserved, which can serve as a bright diagnostic sign); severe muscle spasm, preventing the implementation of a holistic range of motion.

Radicular pain syndrome is also characterized by aggravation of the patient's condition from any stress.

When a pinched nerve in the back occurs, the symptoms are usually quite severe. The patient is in severe pain. Often it gives to nearby areas, as well as to internal organs.

Symptoms of a pinched nerve in the spine are usually directly related to the limitation of the patient's mobility. Every slight turn of the head or change in posture causes violent attack pain. Sometimes they continue constantly, disturbing him even at night.

Signs of pinching are usually quite clear:

pain;
muscle tension;
stay in a forced position;
difficulty in movement;
numbness of the limbs;
puffiness;
decreased sensitivity;
change in blood circulation;
hyporeflexia;
tissue ischemia.

Often the discomfort manifests itself most strongly not even in vertebral department and in the upper or lower extremity. A person cannot raise his arm, move his shoulder, roll over from side to side.

The patient often experiences general malaise, chills, sweating. If you postpone the visit to the doctor, then the infringement will worsen, the pinched nerve ending will begin to experience more and more squeezing, swelling and myospasm will only increase due to severe pain. The inflammatory process, of course, will continue to grow rapidly. Then paresis, dystrophic effects on surrounding tissues, even death of the nerve are possible.

Diagnosis of pathology

All this can be absolutely irreversible damage to the nerves in the spine. The main reason for such a severe pathology is that it is of a long progressive nature. All the structures involved in this process are gradually deformed, lose their functions and, over time, simply begin to die.

Treatment of radicular syndrome begins with the establishment of its cause. The neurologist usually determines what to do first. Usually, a lot of explicit and reliable data is provided by radiography in two projections, computed and magnetic resonance imaging, and electroneuromyography.

It is very important to conduct a differential diagnosis, since the symptoms of a pinched nerve in the back may be similar to those of other diseases of the spinal nerve. These include intervertebral hernia, spondylarthrosis, bone tuberculosis, malignant or benign neoplasm, congenital anomalies, trauma, vertebral fractures, infection, osteoporosis.

They are characterized by the development of a pathological process at the point of contact of the nerve ending with the tissues of the back and spinal column. Therefore, there is a very large area of damage, including internal organs. All this can last for a very long time, until the patient receives full medical care.

Pharmacotherapy of the disease

Treatment of radicular syndrome is usually associated with the degree of nerve damage. Usually the doctor prescribes the patient a strict bed rest. To alleviate his condition, analgesics (Analgin, Ketanov, Baralgin), anti-inflammatory drugs (Diclofenac, Indomethacin ointment, Ibuprofen), glucocorticosteroids are used.

Have a good effect local funds, contributing to the removal of edema caused by congestion, increased blood circulation, and facilitated movements. Their influence helps to eliminate nerve compression, relax muscles, and normalize reflexes. Painful sensations begin to gradually disappear, as well as the local hyperemia and fever associated with them.

When the doctor determines what to do to relieve the most pronounced manifestations of the disease, they are most often used pepper patch, ointments, gels, balms (Fastum gel, Voltaren, Diclofenac, Finalgon), local anesthetics.

Muscle relaxants help restore nerve roots (Baclofen, Mydocalm, Sirdalud), antispasmodics, epidural blockade using painkillers, anticonvulsants. These measures prevent the development of further degenerative processes and greatly alleviate the patient's condition.

In the treatment of a pinched nerve in the spine, chondroprotectors (Alflutop, Dona, Teraflex, Chondroxide), immunostimulants, and substances that promote tissue regeneration help restore tissues. To normalize blood circulation, angioprotectors, vasodilators, and venotonics are used.

They activate the disturbed blood flow caused by the development of radicular syndrome, relieve lymphostasis, and strengthen the walls of blood vessels. As a result, the threat of muscle atrophy, ischemia of nearby tissues and limbs, as well as internal organs, is eliminated.

Symptoms intervertebral hernia decrease, the nerve is released, blood supply and innervation are fully restored.

To stabilize the patient's nervous state, usually prescribed sedatives, sleeping pills, tranquilizers. Self-medication is unacceptable, since these medicines are prescribed only by prescription and are taken under the strict supervision of a specialist. In addition, it should be borne in mind that they have a number of side effects and can cause adverse reactions organism.

The patient's condition is also stabilized by the regular intake of vitamins of group B and a number of minerals, which include Magnesium, Calcium, Manganese, Bromine, Sodium, Potassium. They contribute to a significant strengthening of the central and peripheral nervous system, start the processes of tissue regeneration, and also prevent the irreversible narrowing of the holes through which the affected spinal roots exit.

Additional methods of treatment of radicular syndrome

When deciding how to treat a pinched nerve, advantages are given to certain methods of influencing tissues. A number of auxiliary procedures are carried out, which include back massage, physiotherapy, therapeutic exercises, reflexology, paraffin, mud, UHF, phonophoresis, electrophoresis, sulfide and radon baths, acupuncture, manual therapy, special medical nutrition, mineral water intake.

These methods allow you to eliminate the main symptoms of the lesion radicular nerve, contribute to the restoration of intervertebral cartilage and reduce the intensity of the inflammatory process.

Only a doctor can say with absolute certainty how to cure this pathology and how long it will take to restore the patient's health. Severe pinching of the spinal nerve may require surgery. Then the spine is released. For this, an operation is performed to eliminate the intervertebral hernia.

What to do in this case and how the surgical intervention will be carried out can only be decided by the attending physician, based on the patient's condition, the degree of neglect of the disease, and the complications that have arisen.

Forecast and prevention

Timely treatment of radicular syndrome usually ends in recovery. However, with advanced forms of the disease, it can become chronic.

Such a course of pathology leads to a gradual degenerative lesion of all surrounding tissues. The functions of the spine and associated limbs are severely limited. This can result in disability.

In order for the symptoms of radicular syndrome not to manifest themselves again, a number of restorative and preventive measures. Required permanent reception drugs that help normalize the activity of the nerve of the back and the cartilaginous tissue surrounding it, therapeutic exercises, swimming, balneology, wearing a corset, careful weight control, spa treatment.

All these measures should be carefully and strictly observed, since neglect of the doctor's instructions can cause a relapse of the disease.

Summary:The radicular syndrome is manifested by infringement, irritation, inflammation of the spinal roots extending from the spinal cord. Most often, radicular syndrome is associated with or, but it can be caused by any formation located in the lumen of the spinal canal. That is why the diagnosis must begin with magnetic resonance imaging. Conservative treatment is more successful than surgical and causes fewer complications.

Keywords: radicular syndrome, osteochondrosis, intervertebral hernia, protrusion, spondylosis,

What is radicular syndrome?

Radicular syndrome (another name is radiculopathy) is a pain syndrome that occurs when the roots of the spinal nerves are pinched and irritated.

Pain caused by a pinched nerve in the cervical spine is called cervical radicular syndrome or cervical radiculopathy. This pinching can cause pain, tingling, burning, and weakness along the entire length of the arm, including the hand. Similarly, lumbosacral (lumbosacral) radicular syndrome (lumbosacral radiculopathy,) can cause pain, tingling, burning, and weakness in the leg, foot, and toes.

Causes of radicular syndrome

Any tissue that compresses the spinal nerve can cause radicular syndrome. Some conditions can lead to irritation of the blood vessels that feed the spinal roots, leading to secondary inflammation of the nerves. Common causes of radicular syndrome include diseases such as:

Intervertebral hernia
Intervertebral discs consist of a gel-like center (nucleus pulposus) and a hard outer shell (annulus fibrosus). If, for some reason, a crack or tear forms in the annulus fibrosus, part of the nucleus pulposus may come out into the spinal canal. The spinal canal is a hollow vertical tube formed by the arches of the vertebrae, which houses the spinal cord and nerve roots extending from it. A herniated disc can compress a nearby nerve root and cause neurological symptoms in the arm and/or leg;
Stenosis (narrowing) of the spinal canal
can lead to compression of the nerve roots, and, as a result, the occurrence of radicular syndrome. Spinal stenosis can be congenital or acquired. Congenital stenosis is an anatomical feature of the spinal canal. Acquired stenosis occurs, for example, with the growth of the vertebrae, thickening of the ligaments, intervertebral hernia, etc.;
Foraminal stenosis
Foraminal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal at the level of nerve exit from the intervertebral foramen. If, as a result of narrowing, the nerve root is pinched, radicular syndrome occurs;
Radiculitis
Radicular syndrome can be combined with inflammation of the spinal roots. In a herniated disc, the disc material can chemically irritate and inflame the spinal root;
Spondylarthrosis and spondylosis
Complications of osteochondrosis of the spine, which significantly worsen the course and prognosis of intervertebral hernia;
Cancer, infection, autoimmune disease
Although back pain and radicular syndrome are predominantly caused by mechanical problems in the spine, cancer, infections, and autoimmune diseases can also lead to pinching and inflammation of the nerve roots.

Risk factors

Risk factors for radicular syndrome include:

Age. Age-related changes in the spine, such as intervertebral hernias and bone growths, are the most common causes of radicular syndrome;
Obesity. Overweight the body increases the load on the spine and thereby contributes to the appearance of changes that cause radicular syndrome;
Job. Jobs that require a person to twist their torso, lift heavy loads, or drive for long periods of time may play a role in radicular syndrome;
Prolonged sitting. People who are forced to spend a lot of time in a sitting position, as well as people who lead a sedentary lifestyle, are more likely to suffer from radicular syndrome;
Diabetes. This condition increases the risk of damage to the nervous tissue;
Smoking. It is assumed that smoking accelerates the aging process of the body, including the spine, causing degenerative changes in it, which leads to spinal canal stenosis, the appearance of bone growths, intervertebral hernias, etc.

Symptoms

Feelings of tingling, burning and / or numbness, as well as pain symptoms, as a rule, are unilateral. For example, in sciatica, the patient usually feels a sharp "shooting" pain through the buttock and further down the back of the leg. Patients who have had partial or total loss control of urinary and/or defecation functions should seek urgent medical attention.

Complications

Although most people with radicular syndrome recover completely, sometimes even without any treatment, radicular syndrome has the potential to cause permanent nerve damage. Contact immediately medical assistance if you have at least one of the following symptoms:

Loss of sensation in an arm or leg;
Weakness in an arm or leg;
Partial or complete loss of control over the functions of urination and / or defecation.

Diagnostics

Most often, radicular pain does not manifest itself in a sitting position. It usually occurs when performing certain movements or body positions. For example, if you have radicular syndrome due to intervertebral hernia You may feel worse when sitting and better when walking. At the neurologist's consultation, you should tell the doctor all your observations about the nature, duration of pain and other symptoms, about positions and actions that alleviate or, conversely, aggravate your symptoms. In addition, you should inform your doctor about other illnesses that you have been diagnosed with, especially if it is cancer or an autoimmune disease.

After discussing your symptoms, the doctor will conduct a physical examination. The doctor can feel some parts of the spine to determine the location of the pinched nerve, check the severity of the reflexes and the mobility of a particular part of the body.

If you need to clarify the diagnosis, you may be assigned to conduct a radiographic study. These studies include x-rays, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Let's take a closer look at these studies.

Radiography
This study may indicate the cause of radicular syndrome in cases where it is associated with problems in the bone tissue (for example, with bone growths or spinal fractures);
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
MRI is now recognized as the gold standard for diagnosing problems with the spine, because this study allows you to get high-quality detailed images of not only bone, but also soft tissues of the spine (ligaments, muscles, intervertebral discs, nerves, etc.). With the help of MRI, it is possible to diagnose intervertebral hernia, spinal stenosis, tumor of the spine, thickening of the ligaments, and much more;
Computed tomography (CT)
CT also allows you to get detailed images of not only bone, but also soft tissues of the spine, however, the quality of images obtained using CT still leaves much to be desired, so CT is often used if there are contraindications to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) , the main of which is the presence of metal structures in the body (pacemakers, implants inner ear, artificial joints).

Treatment

In most cases, radicular syndrome responds well to conservative treatment. Conservative treatment methods include physiotherapy, therapeutic massage, therapeutic exercises, as well as medication (which can lead to serious side effects).

If the radicular syndrome is resistant to conservative treatment, surgical intervention is possible. The purpose of this intervention is to decompress the nerve root. This can be achieved with discectomy (removal of a herniated disc), removal of a piece of bone from a vertebra (laminectomy), and a procedure called spinal fusion, which fuses a spinal segment to prevent instability. It should be understood that any surgical intervention is associated with a certain risk of complications. In addition, it is known that in a large percentage of cases, surgery does not help the patient get rid of his symptoms. Therefore, before choosing a surgical intervention, it is recommended to undergo a comprehensive and systematic conservative treatment for at least three months.