Why lower back pain travels down the leg
The nerves that leave the lower spine run towards the buttock, thigh and leg. When there is pressure or inflammation at the root of one of these nerves, the pain does not stay in the lower back but travels along the nerve’s path down the leg. Medically this is called radiculopathy, and it is commonly known as sciatica.
Common causes
- A slipped disc pressing on a nerve (PLID)
- Narrowing of the spinal canal with age (spinal stenosis)
- One spinal bone slipping over another
- Pain from the sacroiliac joint or the buttock muscles, which can often feel like nerve pain
Symptoms that suggest a nerve is involved
- Pain below the knee, even into the sole of the foot
- Tingling, burning or numbness in the leg
- Pain that gets worse when sneezing, coughing or bending forward
- Having to stop after walking a short distance because the leg feels heavy
How treatment is planned
MRI and a physical examination together show exactly which nerve is being compressed, and at which level. Then, as needed, non-surgical treatments are given, such as fluoroscopy-guided nerve root or epidural injections, ozone nucleolysis or disc decompression. Physiotherapy and exercise are started gradually alongside.
This patient’s experience
In the video, the patient explains that before treatment the pain spread to the leg and made walking and work difficult, and that after treatment they can now carry on with normal work. Results can differ from patient to patient. But if leg weakness gets worse, or there is a problem controlling the bladder or bowels, get emergency treatment without delay.
This article is for general health information. Always consult a doctor for your own diagnosis and treatment.
