Neurophysiological diagnostics in radiculopathic syndromes

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