Neurophysiological diagnostics in radiculopathic syndromes

This article describes the diagnostic value of different neurophysiological techniques (sensory and motor neurography, F-wave studies, H-reflex, sensory and magnetic evoked potentials, and EMG) which are used to study patients with radiculopathies due to nerve root compression and inflammatory processes. The importance of sensory nerve conduction studies for differentiating between radiculopathies and plexopathies is highlighted, Although imaging techniques have improved and show structural lesions, electromyography including paravertebral recordings are essential in the study of patients with compressive radiculopathies because only this technique offers the possibility to show functional impairment.