What it can mean
Radicular pain travels along an irritated spinal nerve root. It may radiate into an arm or leg and occur with tingling, numbness, or weakness. Not every radiating pain is radicular.
How it is evaluated
Strength, sensation, reflexes, and symptom distribution are compared with imaging. Additional testing may be useful when the diagnosis is unclear.
How care is planned
Treatment may include activity modification, rehabilitation, medication, an epidural injection, or surgical evaluation when indicated. Progressive weakness warrants prompt reassessment.
Your diagnosis depends on an individual evaluation. Several pain sources can overlap.
Related treatment guideFurther reading: Johns Hopkins Spine Center