[Hypertrophy of the calf secondary to S1 radiculopathy].

Abstract

Muscle hypertrophy following denervation is an uncommon phenomenon. Calf hypertrophy in man with S1 radiculopathy is here reported. Electrophysiological examination of hypertrophic muscles revealed a neurogenic pattern with spontaneous bizarre repetitive discharges. Posterior tibial nerve pharmacological block failed to abolish these discharges. During the following three years the hypertrophy decreased while the spontaneous repetitive discharges persisted unchanged. Relationship between radiculopathy, 'neurogenic' hypertrophy and bizarre repetitive discharges is discussed.