Lumbar Radiculopathy

Overview
Lumbar radiculopathy is nerve irritation caused by damage to the discs between the vertebrae in the lumbar spine.  It can result in a herniated disc and/or sciatica.

Causes

• Degeneration of the outer ring of the disc
• Traumatic injury

Symptoms

• Low back pain
• “Popping” sensation
• Numbness and tingling
• Increased pain with movements at the waist and with coughing and sneezing
• Increased radiating pain when the lower extremity is lifted

Diagnosis

• EMG
• X-rays
• CT scan
• MRI

Treatment

• Anti-inflammatory and pain medications
• Cortisone injections
• Physical therapy
• Surgery

Source: https://www.emedicinehealth.com/