Affiliations: The Spine Program, University of Michigan, MI, USA
Correspondence:
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Address for correspondence: M.W. Smuck, M.D., Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, The Spine Program, University of Michigan, 325 E. Eisenhower Pkwy, Ann Arbor, MI 48108-0744, USA. Tel.: +1 734 936 7201; Fax: +1 734 763 4224; E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract: Lumbosacral radiculopathy is a relatively common condition, affecting approximately 1–10% of the population. Herniation of nucleus pulposus from the intervertebral disc initiates a strong inflammatory response that can result in pain with or without spinal nerve injury. Both inflammatory and mechanical factors are involved in the pathophysiology of radiculopathy. Each has a role in nerve injury while inflammation is thought to be the key mediator of radicular pain. The natural history of radiculopathy is generally favorable, with approximately 40% of patients experiencing significant improvement in symptoms within 6 weeks, and 90% demonstrating significant relief in long-term follow-up.
