Electromyographicanalysis of prevalence and characteristics of radiculopathy in Parkinson’s disease

ABSTRACT

Background & Objectives: To determine the prevalence and characteristics of radiculopathy in Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients through electrodiagnostic tests, to assess associated radicular pain characteristics,and to investigate the relationship between pain and other clinical manifestations of PD. Methods: Electrodiagnostic testing including nerve conduction studies and needle electromyographywas performed to investigate comorbid peripheral neuropathy or radiculopathy. All patients were asked to complete aquality of life (QOL) measurement related to pain. Results: Thirty-two (39%) of 82 PD patients had radiculopathy based on electrodiagnostic testing. 46.9% with radiculopathy patients had involvement of multiple roots level. The most commonly involved root was L5 (83.3%). Patients with radiculopathy had longer PD durations (p=0.011) and higher posture-related axial scores on the UPDRS scale (p=0.017).There was a trend for pain in the leg and low back to occur more frequently in PD patients with radiculopathy. QOL is not significantly different according to the presence of radiculopathy in PD. Conclusions: This study demonstrates a high prevalence of radiculopathy, particularly multiple root involvement, and is correlated with pain complaints and with axial motor scores on UPDRS. These findings might be related to increased shear force at the intervertebral disc by axial rigidity and flexed posture in PD along with the duration and severity of PD disease course.