Radiculopathy, often called a pinched nerve, occurs when a nerve root in the spine becomes compressed or irritated. It can cause pain, numbness, tingling or weakness that radiates from the spine into an arm or leg. While the term may sound unfamiliar, the symptoms are common, and many people experience them at some point in their lives.

“You can get pinched nerves anywhere, but commonly it’s a nerve coming out of the spine causing numbness and tingling,” said Chih-Ta Lin, MD, who sees patients at CU Medicine Neurosurgery – Longmont, CU Medicine Neurosurgery – Broomfield and CU Sports Medicine and Performance Center.

What Causes Radiculopathy?

Radiculopathy develops when a structure in the spine puts pressure on a nerve root. Common causes include a herniated or bulging disk, spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal), bone spurs and degenerative changes that affect the neck and back.

“In addition to health conditions, trauma such as a fall or accident can cause a pinched nerve,” said Dr. Lin.

How is Radiculopathy Diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually begins with a physical exam, a review of symptoms and a medical history. Imaging such as an MRI or CT scan may be used to identify the source of nerve compression. In some cases, electromyography (EMG) is used to assess nerve function.

When it comes to distinguishing pinched nerve pain from other back pain, Dr. Lin said, “It can take a little bit of investigating to see if the pain is coming from a pinched nerve or something else. Generally speaking, pinched nerves usually involve an extremity like your arm or leg having numbness, tingling or pain.”

Does Radiculopathy Require Surgery?

Most cases of radiculopathy improve with nonsurgical treatment, including physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medication, activity modification and steroid injections.

Surgery is generally considered when symptoms persist despite conservative treatment, when there is significant weakness or when imaging shows a structural problem that is unlikely to improve on its own. When surgery is needed, options range from minimally invasive procedures to more involved spinal decompression, depending on the cause and severity.

“Treatments for pinched nerves can go from one extreme to the other,” said Dr. Lin. “The first extreme is to do nothing and see if it heals. For severe cases, patients may need surgery to find relief, but there are a lot of options between doing nothing and surgery.”

When Should You See a Specialist?

Anyone experiencing persistent numbness, tingling, weakness or radiating pain that does not improve within a few weeks should consider seeing a neurology specialist.

Seeking care sooner is especially important if symptoms include loss of bladder or bowel control, significant weakness or pain that interferes with daily activities, as these can signal a more urgent condition.

“If anyone is having pain, but especially pain with numbness and tingling, we want to see them,” said Dr. Lin.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pinched Nerves:

What does a pinched nerve feel like?

Most people describe a sharp, burning or shooting pain that travels from the spine into an arm or leg, often accompanied by numbness, tingling or weakness along the affected nerve’s path.

Can a pinched nerve go away on its own?

Yes, mild-to-moderate pinched nerve cases often improve within weeks to months with rest and conservative care such as physical therapy or anti-inflammatory medication.

Is a pinched nerve (radiculopathy) the same as sciatica?

Sciatica is a type of radiculopathy or pinched nerve. Radiculopathy generally refers to the broader term of nerve compression along the spine.

How long does it take to recover from a pinched nerve?

Patients who respond to conversative treatments such as physical therapy or anti-inflammatory medications can see improvement within weeks, while those who undergo surgery may need more time.

Introducing CU Medicine Neurosurgery – Broomfield

CU Medicine pleased to announce the opening of CU Medicine Neurosurgery – Broomfield. This clinic provides compassionate, comprehensive and team-based care for a full range of conditions affecting the brain, spine and nervous system. Patients benefit from the expertise of providers who are also faculty at the CU Anschutz School of Medicine. Call the clinic today at 303-544-3836 if you suspect a pinched nerve or other neurologic condition.