Radicular Pain Treatment in New Buffalo, MI
Honest evaluations for radicular pain. If we can help, we'll tell you. If we can't, we'll tell you that too.
What is Radicular Pain?
Radicular pain — also called radiculopathy — occurs when a spinal nerve root becomes compressed or irritated, causing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that radiates along the nerve's path into the arms or legs. At Corrective Chiropractic, radicular pain cases are among the most important to evaluate thoroughly, because the underlying cause determines the appropriate approach.
Common Symptoms
- Sharp, shooting, or burning pain that travels down an arm or a leg
- Numbness or a loss of sensation in the specific area served by the affected nerve
- Tingling or a 'pins and needles' feeling
- Muscle weakness in the affected limb, potentially causing a foot drop or weak grip
What Causes It?
Radicular pain is typically caused by herniated discs, bone spurs, spinal stenosis, or degenerative changes that compress nerve roots as they exit the spine. The location of the compression determines where symptoms appear — cervical nerve compression causes arm symptoms, while lumbar compression causes leg symptoms.
How Chiropractic Care Helps
Dr. Strother evaluates radicular pain by assessing which nerve is affected, what's causing the compression, and how severe the involvement is. His approach may include spinal decompression and specific adjustments aimed at reducing pressure on the affected nerve. However, some radicular pain cases — particularly those with progressive neurological deficits — require surgical evaluation. He'll tell you honestly which category your case falls into.
What to Expect During Treatment
Your evaluation includes detailed neurological testing to identify which nerve root is involved and what's causing the compression. Dr. Strother will explain his findings clearly and give you a direct assessment of whether his approach is appropriate for your specific situation — or whether you need to see a specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is radicular pain the same as sciatica?
That depends on what's causing the nerve compression and how severe it is. Some cases respond well to conservative chiropractic care including decompression therapy. Others — especially those with progressive weakness or loss of function — may need surgical evaluation. Dr. Strother will assess your case and give you an honest recommendation.
How successful is chiropractic care for radicular pain?
Spinal decompression creates gentle traction to reduce pressure on compressed nerve roots. It's one approach Dr. Strother uses when the evaluation indicates it's appropriate. Whether it's right for your case depends on the specific findings.
Will the numbness and weakness go away?
That varies based on the cause and severity of nerve compression. Dr. Strother will give you a realistic timeline and track your progress objectively. If you're not improving as expected, he'll reassess and be upfront about next steps.
Ready to Get an Honest Assessment?
Find out whether Dr. Strother can help with your radicular pain. If he can, he'll let you know. If he can't, he'll tell you that too.