Treatment of radiculopathy: Medication, lifestyle changes, rest, or surgery

Author:
Bc. Lukáš Tóth
Bc. Lukáš Tóth
Healthcare worker

The treatment is aimed at relieving pain in the acute stage. This is called pharmacological therapy. This is complemented by regimental measures, i.e. bed rest and avoidance of physical activity.

The following medications are administered:

  • analgesics
  • local anesthetics
  • non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
  • opiates
  • corticoids
  • anti-swelling drugs
  • muscle relaxants 
  • nutritional supplements - vitamins, minerals, collagen, antioxidants
  • psychotropic medication
  • medication to improve blood flow

The above medications can be applied in various forms, i.e. tablets, ointments, gels, patches, sprays, and the like.

Applying dry heat helps. The patient should avoid using hot water when washing, bathing, showering in hot water.

Later on, after the acute stage, rehabilitation, proper posture and proper movement practice and exercises are necessary.

Preventive measures:

  • appropriate type of exercise
  • regular walks
  • proper posture
  • sit and occasionally reposition yourself - take breaks at work
  • work ergonomics
  • pay attention to how you lift heavy loads
  • get rid of incorrect movements
  • do not carry loads on one side only
  • maintain a suitable weight
  • wear suitable footwear
  • back school

If conservative treatment fails, surgery is recommended.

For example, cauda syndrome is an indication thereof. After all, the whole segment is evaluated and the most suitable method is determined on the basis of the problems encountered. In some cases, mini-invasive techniques are available to reduce complications during and after surgery.

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Bc. Lukáš Tóth
Bc. Lukáš Tóth
Healthcare worker
The secondary medical school in Nitra gave me the basis for my career in the field of health and diseases. Thanks to it, I worked for 2 years in the traumatology clinic and outpatient clinic at the Nitra Hospital. Since 2006 I was employed in the emergency medical service, where I stayed until 2017. I completed my bachelor's degree at the University of Constantine the Philosopher in Nitra in the field of emergency health care. The bachelor's degree allowed me to continue my mission as a paramedic. In the meantime, I got a job at the emergency line 155. I have been working in pre-hospital health care until today. I had an interest in people, health and even diseases in my childhood, which gave me the prerequisite to pursue this topic in adulthood. Studying and acquiring new information in practice provided me with a great basis for writing professional texts, in the form of articles that can be understood by ordinary people. Thus, my interest in the Health Portal has a solid foundation in years of practice and personal interest. Similarly, I am also interested in healthy eating, nutrition and overall healthy lifestyle. I fill my free time with family and sports.
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