Lumbar Radiculopathy (Sciatica)

Covenant Spine & Neurology provides advanced care for Lumbar Radiculopathy, commonly known as Sciatica. This condition occurs when a nerve in the lower back becomes compressed or irritated, often due to a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or degenerative changes in the spine. The result can be sharp, radiating pain that extends from the lower back down through the leg. Our team offers a patient-centered approach designed to identify the root cause of your pain and create a customized plan to restore comfort and mobility.

Understanding Lumbar Radiculopathy

Lumbar radiculopathy refers to irritation or compression of one or more of the spinal nerve roots in the lower back. These nerves travel from the spine down into the hips, legs, and feet. When pressure is placed on these nerves, it can lead to pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness along the nerve’s pathway, a condition commonly called sciatica.

 

This condition may result from:

 

  • Herniated or Bulging Discs pressing on nerve roots

  • Degenerative Disc Disease or age-related spinal wear

  • Bone Spurs from arthritis narrowing the spinal canal

  • Injury or trauma that causes swelling and nerve compression

Common Symptoms

Symptoms of lumbar radiculopathy can vary from mild discomfort to severe pain and may include:

 

  • Sharp, burning pain that radiates from the lower back down the leg

  • Numbness or tingling in the legs or feet

  • Muscle weakness or difficulty standing for long periods

  • Pain that worsens with sitting, bending, or coughing

  • Relief when walking or lying down in specific positions

Pain intensity can fluctuate, and symptoms often occur on one side of the body.

Diagnosis

Symptoms of lumbar radiculopathy can vary from mild discomfort to severe pain and may include:

 

  • Sharp, burning pain that radiates from the lower back down the leg

  • Numbness or tingling in the legs or feet

  • Muscle weakness or difficulty standing for long periods

  • Pain that worsens with sitting, bending, or coughing

  • Relief when walking or lying down in specific positions

Pain intensity can fluctuate, and symptoms often occur on one side of the body.

Treatment Options for Lumbar Radiculopathy

Covenant Spine & Neurology provides both nonsurgical and minimally invasive treatment options to relieve pain and improve nerve function.

 

Nonsurgical Treatments

  • Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises to strengthen the core, improve flexibility, and relieve nerve pressure.

  • Epidural Steroid Injections (ESI): Reduces inflammation and swelling around affected nerves.

  • Medications: Includes anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxants to control pain and stiffness.

  • Activity Modification: Adjusting posture and movement patterns to minimize nerve irritation.

Advanced & Surgical Treatments

  • Microdiscectomy: A minimally invasive surgery to remove the portion of the disc pressing on the nerve.

  • Laminectomy or Decompression Surgery: Relieves pressure caused by spinal stenosis or bone spurs.

  • Nerve Block Injections: Provides targeted pain relief for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

Long-Term Management

With proper treatment and ongoing care, most patients experience significant relief from sciatica symptoms. Maintaining a strong core, proper posture, and a healthy lifestyle can prevent recurrence and support long-term spinal health.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are experiencing lower back pain, leg numbness, or other symptoms of Lumbar Radiculopathy (Sciatica), the team at Covenant Spine & Neurology is here to help. We offer advanced diagnostics and treatment options to help you regain comfort, mobility, and quality of life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward relief and recovery or click here to find a location near you.

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For more information or to schedule an appointment call us at 336-761-4020.

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