radiculopathy caused by spinal spondylosis

Last reviewed 01/2018

There are two types of radiculopathy caused by spinal degenerative processes:

• compressive neuropathy:
• disc herniation
• osteophyte formation
• cause compression of the nerve roots
• treatment is to relieve compression:
• laminectomy
• discectomy

• non-compressive neuropathy:
• disc degeneration
• is a biochemical rather than a biomechanical disorder with substance P and fibrinolysis playing a role
• treatment consists of complete removal of the disc with fusion of the anterior or posterior (or both) vertebral bodies

There is often a mixed picture of compressive and non-compressive pathology in a degenerate spine (1).

Reference:

• Sella, E.J. Noncompressive spinal radiculitis. Orthopaedic Review. 1992, 21(7), 827-32.