Lumbar radiculopathy is a condition in which the nerve roots in the lower back become compressed or irritated, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs and feet. Whatever type of back pain you have, Aditya Patel, MD, at Sports, Pain & Regenerative Institute in Fairview, New Jersey, and Montclair, NJ, can help. Dr. Patel uses conservative non-surgical therapies and advanced interventions where needed to treat the cause of your back pain. Find out how to get relief from your back pain with his help by calling Sports, Pain & Regenerative Institute today. You can also schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment online.
Lumbar radiculopathy is a condition in which the nerve roots in the lower back become compressed or irritated, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs and feet. This condition is often caused by conditions such as lumbar herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or spinal arthritis.
Symptoms of lumbar radiculopathy can range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain. Common symptoms include:
Treatment for lumbar radiculopathy depends on the underlying cause of the compression or irritation of the nerve roots. In many cases, self-care measures, such as over-the-counter pain relievers, heat or cold therapy, and gentle stretching and exercise, can be effective in managing pain.
Initially, a healthcare provider may recommend physical therapy, chiropractic care, or prescription medications to manage pain.
Epidural steroid injections can be highly effective in reducing pain and restoring functioning by reducing inflammation and swelling associated with disc herniation.
In severe cases especially if leg weakness is present and persistent, surgery may need to be considered to decompress the impinged nerves to restore their normal functioning.
Neuromodulation is an alternative therapy that has proven to be highly successful in controlling low back and leg pain related to lumbar radiculopathy.
It is important to seek medical attention if lumbar radiculopathy is accompanied by significant leg weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or other symptoms that suggest a more serious underlying condition.