Radiculitis develops as a result of pressure on the nerve root where it connects to the spine. The location of the pain depends on the location of the affected nerve. Radiculitis of the thoracic spine can cause pain in the chest region, whereas radiculitis of the lumbar spine can cause pain in the lower back, hips, legs, and feet. The pain often increases and decreases with certain activities or body positions, but most people who experience this condition report that the pain never fully subsides. When this condition arises from a slow-developing disease such as osteoarthritis, it is more difficult to identify the exact location of the damaged nerve. In such cases, extensive testing may be required in order to proceed with treatment. In the case of injury or trauma, it’s much easier to find the damaged or compressed nerve. Testing may include scans such as CT scans or MRIs, electromyography or evoked potential tests, or myelography (a procedure in which dye is injected into the spinal cord before X-rays are performed). Treatment of radiculitis may include pain management (through various medications), physical therapy, massage therapy, or chiropractic treatment. If none of these treatments alleviate the pain, the patient may require surgery, especially if the condition resulted from disc herniation.