Radiculopathy and neuropathy are two common diagnoses that patients receive after undergoing a spinal MRI following an accident. The difference between radiculopathy and peripheral neuropathy can be difficult to understand because they share overlapping symptoms. For many patients, the treatment options are often similar as well. Some medical professionals may struggle to make a clear distinction for their patients, which only creates more confusion.
At Wisner Baum, we have extensive experience helping clients diagnosed with radiculopathy or neuropathy after car accidents, slips and falls, and other personal injury claims. We understand the complexities of these conditions and how they impact your life and legal claim. Our injury attorneys are here to help you navigate the legal process so you can focus on your recovery.
Do you want to talk to an injury attorney now? Wisner Baum represents clients nationwide, so call (855) 948-5098 to begin.
Radiculopathy occurs when a spinal nerve is pinched by surrounding tissues. It can develop gradually or result from sudden trauma, such as a car accident or slip-and-fall incident.
Common initial symptoms of radiculopathy include:
The location of the spinal injury determines the type of radiculopathy and its associated symptoms. The three main types are:
Radiculopathy is commonly caused by physical injuries resulting in a herniated disc. A disc can swell or move out of place, pressing on a nerve when a disc is damaged. Accidents violent enough to cause radiculopathy often include:
While bone spurs, degenerative health conditions, and bone health complications like ossification can also cause radiculopathy, these causes are less common in personal injury cases.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, approximately 85% of radiculopathy cases resolve without treatment after 8-12 weeks. However, recovery may take longer for individuals with pre-existing spinal conditions or severe injuries. Some patients may require surgical intervention or specialized treatments; in some cases, radiculopathy may become a chronic condition.
Treatment options for radiculopathy will vary depending on the location and severity of the injury. Your medical provider can discuss options with you, but for severe cases, corrective surgery – with its own risk of complications – may be the best or only option.
Nonsurgical treatments for radiculopathy can include:
Neuropathy, or peripheral neuropathy, occurs when nerves outside the brain or spinal cord are damaged. Many people confuse neuropathy with radiculopathy due to similar symptoms and the misconception that all nerves are located in the spinal cord.
Typical symptoms of neuropathy can include:
Neuropathy can manifest in several forms:
Like radiculopathy, neuropathy is often caused by violent accidents. Car accidents, truck collisions, and slip-and-fall incidents can all potentially cause nerve damage throughout the body. The more severe the impact or shaking, the higher the likelihood of nerve irritation or damage.
Neuropathy is generally considered incurable in most cases due to the slow healing nature of nerves, especially when significantly damaged. Even "mild" cases of neuropathy may be permanent, making it crucial to seek proper medical attention and legal representation following an accident.
While neuropathy may not be curable, medical professionals can recommend ways to alleviate or lessen symptoms through prescription medicines and injections. Treatments may include:
In cases of severe neuropathy causing chronic pain or immobility, surgery may be considered to repair damaged nerves or alleviate pressure on affected nerves.
Suppose you or someone in your family suffered nerve damage in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence. In that case, you may be able to pursue justice and compensation in a personal injury lawsuit with the help of Wisner Baum.
Why pursue a lawsuit if insurance is involved? Following a serious accident resulting in significant injuries like radiculopathy or neuropathy, auto insurance coverage may not adequately cover the costs of required care, lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of consortium, and long-term effects.
Key considerations in radiculopathy and neuropathy personal injury claims:
Medical evidence: Proper documentation of your diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis is crucial for building a strong case.
Long-term impact: These conditions can affect your ability to work and enjoy life, which should be factored into your compensation.
Future medical costs: Ongoing treatment and potential surgeries should be considered when calculating damages.
Pain and suffering: Chronic pain and lifestyle changes associated with these conditions can significantly impact one's quality of life.
An experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate these complex issues and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. The California injury lawyers at Wisner Baum offer free and confidential case evaluations. We represent clients contingently, meaning you don't pay unless we win your case.
Do you want to talk to an injury attorney now? Call Wisner Baum today at (310) 207-3233 for a free case evaluation.