Best Radiculopathy Doctors in Indore

Radiculopathy is a condition that arises when there is compression or irritation of a nerve root in the spine. This can lead to symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness along the path of the affected nerve. This condition is often caused by degenerative changes in the spine like herniated discs, bone spurs, spinal stenosis, and osteoarthritis. Other triggers can include injuries, tumours, infections, and diabetes.

Situated in the heartland of India, Indore is a city known for its rich history and vibrant culture. However, like many urban centres, residents here are not immune to health conditions like radiculopathy. Apollo Hospitals Indore are home to some of the best neurosurgeons and doctors for radiculopathy treatment who are well-versed in diagnosing and addressing this condition effectively.

Types/Stages of Radiculopathy

Radiculopathy can manifest itself in different ways depending on which part of the spine it affects:

• Cervical radiculopathy: This type affects the neck and can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the arms and chest.

• Thoracic radiculopathy: Though less common than other types, thoracic radiculopathy can cause pain, numbness, and tingling sensations in the chest, abdomen, or back.

• Lumbar radiculopathy: Also known as sciatica, this type affects the lower back and can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the lower back, hips, buttocks, legs, and feet.

Radiculopathy is usually staged into three as:

1. Mild: Early stage with intermittent symptoms like mild pain or tingling that may resolve on its own or with conservative treatments.

2. Moderate: Symptoms become more frequent, affecting daily activities, and possibly requiring more intensive treatment.

3. Severe: Persistent and debilitating symptoms such as severe pain, numbness, or weakness, often necessitating more aggressive treatments including surgery.

Symptoms of Radiculopathy

Depending on the location of the affected nerve root, symptoms of radiculopathy can include:

• Pain that radiates along the path of the nerve

• Numbness

• Tingling sensation

• Weakness

• Decreased reflexes

Tests to Diagnose Radiculopathy

To diagnose radiculopathy, doctors at Apollo Hospitals Indore would typically recommend the following tests:

• Physical examination: To check for pain, numbness, and weakness.

• X-ray: To get a detailed image of the spine.

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): To visualise nerve-related abnormalities.

• Electromyography (EMG): Helps in assessing the electrical activity of muscles.

• Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV): To measure how fast electrical signals move through a nerve.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Radiculopathy at Apollo Hospitals Indore

At Apollo Hospitals Indore, various treatment options are available for patients with radiculopathy:

• Conservative treatments: These include over-the-counter medications, physical therapy, epidural steroid injections, and immobilisation.

• Surgery: If conservative treatments don't relieve symptoms, surgical options such as discectomy (removal of herniated disc), laminectomy (removal of vertebrae), or spinal fusion could be recommended by our team of experienced radiculopathy surgeons.

• Lifestyle modifications: Adjusting daily activities, using ergonomic supports, and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage symptoms and prevent exacerbations of radiculopathy.