Dermatome

The surface of your skin is divided into areas called dermatomes, which are each served by a single nerve root in your spine. In other words, sections of your skin (dermatomes) feel sensation from particular nerve roots. If your spine is damaged, dermatomes help doctors at The Bonati Institute determine the location of the damage, according to where you experience pain, numbness, or weakness.

The seven cervical vertebrae have eight pairs of nerve roots, one on each side of the body. Each thoracic, lumbar, and sacral vertebra has one pair of nerve roots, one on each side of the body. There is also one pair supplying the skin around the coccyx. The arrangement of dermatomes forms a specific pattern on your skin, helping doctors identify affected nerves.

Radiating Pain in a Dermatome

Nerve compression from a herniated disc or bone spurs, for example, often causes pain to travel down a nerve pathway. This type of pain is known as radiculitis, or radiating pain. The dermatome that is affected can tell a doctor which disc or discs are affected so it can be corrected.

If you are experiencing back pain or numbness or weakness in one or more areas of your body and you need effective surgery, consider The Bonati Institute. With our proprietary procedures, there is much less risk than with traditional spine surgery, and you will go home the same day. Our caring staff will guide you through your visit, ensuring you are well taken care of and your pain is relieved.