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Lumbosacral radiculopathy
Andrew W Tarulli1, Elizabeth M Raynor
1Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
Neurologic Clinics
|April 21, 2007
Summary
Lumbosacral radiculopathy affects 3-5% of people, often caused by age-related degenerative changes. This common neurological disorder
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
- Musculoskeletal Disorders
Background:
- Lumbosacral radiculopathy is a frequent neurological disorder, commonly referred for electromyography.
- Its prevalence is estimated between 3% and 5%, affecting men and women equally.
- Degenerative spondyloarthropathies are the primary cause, increasing with age.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the clinical presentation of lumbosacral radiculopathy.
- To outline the initial management strategies for various etiologies.
- To provide insight into the epidemiology of this condition.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological data on lumbosacral radiculopathy.
- Analysis of clinical presentations across different causes.
- Discussion of established management protocols.
Main Results:
- Prevalence estimated at 3-5%, with equal gender distribution.
- Symptom onset typically in 40s for men, 50s-60s for women.
- Degenerative changes are the leading cause.
Conclusions:
- Lumbosacral radiculopathy is a prevalent condition, primarily linked to aging and degenerative diseases.
- Understanding its epidemiology and presentation is key for effective neurologist evaluation and management.
- Initial management strategies vary based on etiology.
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