Nerve root inflammation, also known as radiculitis, is a medical condition characterized by the inflammation and irritation of a nerve root, typically occurring in the spinal cord. The nerve roots are the initial segments of the spinal nerves that exit the spinal cord and branch out to various parts of the body, transmitting sensory and motor signals. Inflammation of these nerve roots can occur due to various factors, including injury, infection, or compression.
The most common cause of nerve root inflammation is compression or irritation of the nerve root by a herniated disc, which is a condition where the soft cushion-like material between the vertebrae in the spine protrudes out and presses against the nerve root. This compression leads to inflammation and results in symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness along the path of the affected nerve.
Other causes of nerve root inflammation may include autoimmune disorders, viral or bacterial infections, trauma, or degenerative conditions like spinal stenosis. The condition may affect different areas of the body depending on which nerve root is impacted. For example, inflammation of the nerve root in the lumbar region (lower back) may cause symptoms such as lower back pain, radiating pain down the leg (sciatica), and muscle weakness in the leg.
Treatment for nerve root inflammation typically involves addressing the underlying cause and managing the symptoms. This may include rest, physical therapy, pain medication, anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroid injections, or in severe cases, surgery to relieve compression on the nerve root.
