Weak muscles and pain do not always occur together. In some cases, these signs and symptoms may be caused by unique health problems. In other cases, a single condition may cause these problems to occur simultaneously. Radiculopathy, a health problem in which your spinal nerve roots are affected, may cause muscle weakness and pain in certain parts of your body. Before using herbs for this health purpose, consult your doctor.
About Radiculopathy
Radiculopathy is not a condition, but it is a health problem associated with spinal nerve root dysfunction. Two of the most common types of radiculopathy are cervical, or neck, radiculopathy and lumbar, or lower back, radiculopathy, both of which can cause pain, muscle weakness and abnormal sensations in certain parts of your body. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, some of the most common causes of radiculopathy include herniated disks, degenerative joint disease and spinal bone spurs, although vertebral fractures, spinal infections and tumors may also cause this problem.
Herbs for Radiculopathy
Herbs have long been used as an adjunct therapy in the treatment of radiculopathy. Because the pain and muscle weakness associated with radiculopathy are nerve-related, herbs that help reduce nerve pain and inflammation may be particularly helpful in treating this condition. Examples of these herbs, notes Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," include white willow, blue violet, cayenne, valerian root, wood betony, rosemary, licorice and gotu kola. Not all herbs traditionally used in treating this health problem may be backed by extensive clinical research trials.
Featured Herb
One of the most helpful herbal remedies in treating weak muscles and nerve pain may be wood betony. The leaves of the wood betony plant, also known as Stachys officinalis, notes expert herbalist Ed Smith, author of "Therapeutic Herb Manual," contain numerous medicinal ingredients that may be helpful in treating your nerve pain. This remedy is also known for its ability to alter muscle tone and function. Wood betony should not be used during pregnancy.
Warning
Severe pain is an indication that you should seek medical attention, as is muscle weakness. Muscle weakness, in particular, may be a sign of a medical emergency that requires the immediate attention of and intervention by a qualified health care professional. To better understand the risks, benefits and limitations of herbs in treating these health problems, schedule an appointment with a naturopathic physician or a medical doctor who specializes in botanical medicine. Not all herbs may be right for you or your ailment.
References
- Spine-Health.org: Lumbar and Cervical Radiculopathy
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Cervical Radiculopathy
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual"; Ed Smith; 2007
