Diagnosing Work-Related Radiculopathy With Detail For a Comprehensive Treatment Plan
Radiculopathy is a common condition that perhaps isn’t as well-known as other workplace injuries of late. This nerve-related disorder arises when an irritated or “pinched” / compressed nerve in the spine triggers a range of symptoms which may include: pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness along the affected nerve’s pathway. Many occupations involve repetitive motions and awkward postures which may place a worker at risk. Diagnosing work-related radiculopathy with accuracy is crucial, not only for securing appropriate treatment but also for navigating workers’ compensation claims. This case study delves into how Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) testing and Electromyography (EMG) plays a vital role in establishing the diagnosis, assessing nerve function, and ultimately facilitating successful management and return to work.
Ensure long-term recovery with NCS / EMG testing with Integrity Diagnostics for work-related radiculopathy.
Diagnosing Work-Related Radiculopathy With The Help of an EMG / NCS Test
A skilled electrician who had always prided herself on her meticulous work and attention to safety had never even heard the phrase “diagnosing work-related radiculopathy.” But, after years of repetitive motions and one specific awkward and sustained position while working at a breaker box, she noticed a persistent tingling and numbness in her right thumb and index finger. At first, she dismissed it as a temporary annoyance, but as the weeks went by, the sensations intensified, accompanied by occasional clumsiness and weakness, especially when trying to button her jeans.
After discussing her symptoms with her supervisor, and being referred to the company’s occupational medicine physician, she learned about the possibility of radiculopathy. Her doctor explained that electricians can be susceptible to this condition, with repetitive hand motions and having to look and bend the neck in awkward positions, potentially contributing to nerve irritation and damage over time. Her human resources department decided to file a worker’s compensation claim.
Diagnosing Work-Related Radiculopathy
Her workers’ compensation team ordered evaluation, and she underwent a detailed examination to establish the diagnosis of work-related radiculopathy and pinpoint the source of the problem. Her doctor ordered an neck and right wrist X-ray and a nerve health test (EMG / NCS) to check for any obvious abnormalities within the structures of her hand and wrist and to obtain objective information about the health of her nerves. These studies were useful in providing the health care team objective information regarding the bones, nerves, and muscles health and function. EMG / NCS can help doctors pinpoint the exact location of nerve damage and assess its severity.
The EMG / NCS Experience
She was slightly apprehensive about the EMG / NCS test, but the “Electromyographer” (a healthcare provider who performs EMG and NCS testing) explained the procedure. Electrodes were carefully placed on her skin, focusing on the areas supplied by the affected nerves in her hand and arm. During the EMG component of the examination, a fine wire about the size of an acupuncture needle was gently inserted into the muscle and the electrical abnormality of the muscle was examined. The EMG / NCS, commonly called Electrodiagnostics, confirmed the presence of an active right 6th cervical nerve root radiculopathy. The study also indicated that the nerve compression was not carpal tunnel (median nerve compression across the wrist), as initially suspected. The test findings provided objective evidence of an active work-related injury affecting her ability to work, further supporting her workers’ compensation claim, and assisting her healthcare team to recommend cervical injections to help her rapid return to work.
Return to Work
Her doctors worked closely with her and her employer to create a rapid return-to-work plan. She began with modified duties, avoiding tasks that involved prolonged overhead work, sustained gripping, and awkward neck positions. She was approved for cervical epidurals which dramatically improved her hand and neck symptoms allowing for return to work after the follow up MD visit. Her employer was supportive, providing her with ergonomic tools and adjusting her schedule to help reduce strain.
EMG / NCS testing played a pivotal role in diagnosing her work-related radiculopathy by guiding effective treatment and work modifications. Her diligence, combined with appropriate care and collaborative support, eventually led to a successful return to her work as an electrician.
Diagnostic Testing And More With Integrity Diagnostics
EMG / NCS testing is a reliable and effective diagnostic tool to enable accurate determination of workers’ compensation cases. Contact us today for more information about this important tool and how it can help minimize the long-term consequences of radiculopathy.
Leave a Reply