Lumbar radiculopathy, commonly known as sciatica, occurs when a nerve in your lower back is compressed or irritated. The lumbar spine houses nerves that travel down into your legs, so when something pinches one of these nerves, you might feel pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness radiating from your lower back into your buttocks, thighs, or even down to your feet.

What Causes Lumbar Radiculopathy?

Several conditions can lead to nerve compression in the lumbar spine, including:

  • Herniated Discs: When the soft center of a spinal disc pushes out and presses on a nerve.
  • Bone Spurs: Bony growths from arthritis that narrow the space for nerves.
  • Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on nerve roots.
  • Spondylolisthesis: When a vertebra slips out of place and pinches a nerve.
  • Trauma or Injury: Sudden injuries that compress or damage nerves.

 

Symptoms of Lumbar Radiculopathy

Symptoms vary depending on which nerve is affected, but common signs include:

  • Radiating Pain: Often sharp, burning, or shooting, starting in the lower back and traveling down the leg.
  • Numbness or Tingling: Usually in the buttocks, thighs, calves, or feet.
  • Weakness: Difficulty lifting the foot (foot drop) or weakness in the legs.
  • Worsening with Certain Activities: Sitting, coughing, or bending forward may intensify symptoms.

 

Diagnosis

To diagnose lumbar radiculopathy, a healthcare provider may use:

  • Medical History and Physical Exam: Testing reflexes, strength, and sensation.
  • Imaging Studies: MRI or CT scans to identify nerve compression.
  • Nerve Tests: Electromyography (EMG) to assess nerve function.

 

Treatment Options

Most cases of lumbar radiculopathy improve with conservative care, but treatment depends on the cause and severity:

  1. Non-Surgical Treatments:
    • Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve flexibility, strength, and posture.
    • Medications: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, or muscle relaxers.
    • Epidural Steroid Injections: To reduce inflammation around the nerve.

 

  1. Surgical Intervention:
    • In severe or persistent cases, surgery such as a microdiscectomy (removal of part of a herniated disc) or laminectomy (removal of part of the vertebra) may be necessary to relieve nerve pressure.

 

Why It Matters

Lumbar radiculopathy can make daily activities—like walking, sitting, or even sleeping—painful and frustrating. The good news? With the right treatment plan, most people find relief and get back to their normal lives.

If your lower back is sending pain signals down your leg, don’t ignore it! Let’s get to the root of the issue and help you feel better.