At New York Spine Institute, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of radiculopathy—a condition caused by compression or irritation of spinal nerve roots. Affecting the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine, radiculopathies can trigger symptoms such as pain, numbness, weakness, or tingling that radiate into the arms or legs.
With a multidisciplinary team of board-certified spine specialists, orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, and rehabilitation experts, NYSI offers expert care tailored to your symptoms, spine anatomy, and lifestyle. From non-invasive therapies to advanced surgical solutions, we are committed to helping every patient move forward with confidence and clarity.
What Is Radiculopathy?
Radiculopathy occurs when a spinal nerve root is pinched, inflamed, or damaged as it exits the spinal column. This can affect sensory and motor signals in various parts of the body depending on the level of the spine involved.
Types of Radiculopathy:
Cervical Radiculopathy: Affects nerves in the neck, often causing symptoms in the shoulders, arms, or hands.
Thoracic Radiculopathy: Involves the mid-back region, with pain potentially radiating around the ribs or chest wall. Less common but often misdiagnosed.
Lumbar Radiculopathy (Sciatica): Involves nerves in the lower back, often producing pain or weakness in the legs and feet. This is the most frequent form of radiculopathy.
Causes of Radiculopathy
Radiculopathies can result from structural issues, chronic degeneration, or underlying medical conditions. Common causes include:
Herniated or bulging discs
Degenerative disc disease
Spinal stenosis
Bone spurs (osteophytes)
Spondylolisthesis (vertebral slippage)
Spinal tumors or cysts
Compression fractures
Diabetes-related nerve changes
Cauda equina syndrome (rare but urgent)
Contributing Risk Factors:
Aging and spinal degeneration
Poor posture or ergonomics
Repetitive motion or lifting injuries
Obesity
Inherited spinal conditions
Symptoms of Radiculopathy
Symptoms depend on the location and severity of nerve root compression, and may include:
Sharp, burning, or radiating pain in the arms or legs
Muscle weakness or loss of coordination
Numbness or tingling in hands, fingers, feet, or toes
Worsened pain with certain movements or positions
Decreased reflexes
Early evaluation by a spine specialist is key to preventing further nerve damage and long-term disability.
How NYSI Diagnoses Radiculopathies
Our diagnostic process includes a comprehensive physical exam, medical history review, and advanced imaging:
MRI or CT scans to view disc and nerve structures
X-rays to assess bone alignment and spinal degeneration
EMG/Nerve conduction studies to evaluate nerve function
Personalized Treatment Options
At NYSI, we prioritize non-surgical treatments first—developing a customized plan based on your condition, lifestyle, and response to therapy.
If conservative treatments do not provide sufficient relief, surgery may be recommended.
Surgical Solutions:
Discectomy to remove a herniated disc
Laminectomy or foraminotomy to relieve nerve compression
Spinal fusion for structural stability
Removal of bone spurs or tumors: Each procedure is performed with the least invasive approach appropriate for the patient’s condition.
What Our Patients Have To Say Real Patient Testimonials
Dr. Roberts is the BEST and that’s my personal opinion. He is very hands on, compassion and understanding. I highly recommend his services.
—Anna Thomas
I worked with Dr. Macagnau and he was amazing! Extremely friendly and funny to match his knowledge and guidance with my injury. The rest of the staff was no different, I would high...
I worked with Dr. Macagnau and he was amazing! Extremely friendly and funny to match his knowledge and guidance with my injury. The rest of the staff was no different, I would highly recommend them to anyone with back issues.
—Juan Rolon
Dr. Passias is a very knowledgeable modern spine surgeon. not only is he the brightest in his field, he’s the future for this kind of surgery Made me feel comfortable that I ch...
Dr. Passias is a very knowledgeable modern spine surgeon. not only is he the brightest in his field, he’s the future for this kind of surgery Made me feel comfortable that I choose the right doctor. I Went to see Dr. Passias with 5 herniated discs, pain in neck, shoulder, arm and tangles fingers. Dr. Passias gave me the time to explain and tell him all what I feel about my pain and he was lesson to all off it he makes me feel friendly He is the doctor I can trust He take the pain away from me GOD BLESS Him
—Mohamed Haridy
“If I can help one person and say you’ll make it through this, go to them, they will help you. I would help you to let you see what it is like on the other side of the fence when s...
“If I can help one person and say you’ll make it through this, go to them, they will help you. I would help you to let you see what it is like on the other side of the fence when someone goes through so much injury and trauma and then in turn, feels like I do. If you can just meet one doctor, please meet Dr. de Moura.”
—Annette
“I was having severe chronic back pain daily. This went on for almost fifteen years. As soon as I met Dr. Macagno I said, “that’s the guy.” I eventually had a spinal fusion L4/5 an...
“I was having severe chronic back pain daily. This went on for almost fifteen years. As soon as I met Dr. Macagno I said, “that’s the guy.” I eventually had a spinal fusion L4/5 and S1. This was a ten-hour procedure. I exceeded both Dr. Macagno and the hospital staff expectations. Instead of walking a few steps, I easily walked the full length of the hospital halls and climbed stairs almost immediately after surgery. I am so happy to have met Dr. Macagno. I sing his praises every day and I always post on social media about how amazing I am doing every year on the anniversary of my surgery.”
—Gregg
“My reason for writing to you is to express my appreciation for the concern and encouragement you gave me following my surgery. Your visits to me early in the morning and your care...
“My reason for writing to you is to express my appreciation for the concern and encouragement you gave me following my surgery. Your visits to me early in the morning and your careful supervision of my recovery were a strong indication of the genuine concern you have for me. During my later years, I’ve had numerous associations with doctors and a variety of experiences. I can honestly say that I could not have received better treatment than I received from you.”
—L.B.
“Please accept my sincere gratitude for helping me overcome a very serious back problem that I’d had for many years. You were highly recommended to me, and you certainly lived up t...
“Please accept my sincere gratitude for helping me overcome a very serious back problem that I’d had for many years. You were highly recommended to me, and you certainly lived up to your reputation. My friend was right: You’re very good at what you do. Thanks again, and although you’re a very nice man, I hope never to have to see you again.”
—J.B.
“I want to thank you from my heart for all you’ve done for me at such a difficult time in my life. You gave me your time and your confident recommendation, and you even offered to ...
“I want to thank you from my heart for all you’ve done for me at such a difficult time in my life. You gave me your time and your confident recommendation, and you even offered to be at my side if and when surgery becomes necessary. You are a fine physician giving to those in need.”
—K.F.
“Dr. Macagno is the Best doctor! Professional and compassionate. Honest and knowledgeable. Worth every star and about 10 more!!!”
—M.C.
“Dr. Alexandre de Moura and New York Spine Institute are absolutely wonderful! I have personally seen the level of personal care and dedication when one of my seriously injured cli...
“Dr. Alexandre de Moura and New York Spine Institute are absolutely wonderful! I have personally seen the level of personal care and dedication when one of my seriously injured clients was treated there (I am a personal injury attorney). He had a terrific recovery and I credit Dr. de Moura and his staff with that.”
—A.Z.
Dr.v is a great doctor !!! From day one he has accessed and managed my pain while acknowledging me not only as his patient but as a person as well. Every Dr office should have a...
Dr.v is a great doctor !!! From day one he has accessed and managed my pain while acknowledging me not only as his patient but as a person as well. Every Dr office should have a Dr. V and the world for patients with pain would be a much better place. I haven’t had a Dr this great since Dr de Mourra who did my surgery In 2013. Thank you Dr de Mourra for referring me to a pain management dr who really cares for my needs as his patient. It has been a tough road . I can now honestly say the road I travel now as a pain patient is much smoother and manageable. Thank you Dr v and NYU.
While not all causes of radiculopathy can be avoided, you can reduce your risk with proactive spine health strategies:
Maintain good posture
Use proper lifting techniques
Engage in regular, spine-safe physical activity
Strengthen core and back muscles
Maintain a healthy weight
Take movement breaks throughout your day
Why Patients Choose NYSI for Radiculopathy Care
With over two decades of spine-focused excellence, New York Spine Institute is a trusted name in advanced musculoskeletal care across New York and New Jersey.
What Sets Us Apart:
Board-certified providers across orthopedic, neuro, and pain management specialtie
Nationally recognized leadership in complex and revision spine conditions
Locations throughout NYC, Long Island, Westchester, New Jersey, and beyond
Multilingual team fluent in Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, French, and more
Compassionate, patient-first care that focuses on long-term relief and function
Get Expert Answers—Close to Home
If you’re struggling with persistent pain, numbness, or weakness, it could be a sign of radiculopathy. The earlier you get evaluated, the more treatment options you have—and the better your outcome.
Contact New York Spine Institute today to schedule a consultation and explore personalized treatment for radiculopathy. Relief begins with a clear diagnosis and a care team you can trust.
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