Lumbar Radiculopathy
If you’re experiencing sharp leg pain, tingling, or numbness radiating from your lower back, you may be dealing with lumbar radiculopathy. This article will explain what lumbar radiculopathy is, its symptoms, causes, and how targeted physical therapy can help you recover.
At Paspa Physical Therapy in Manhattan, NY, we specialize in treating conditions like lumbar radiculopathy with one-on-one care in private treatment rooms and a full gym setup. Contact us today to begin your personalized recovery journey.
What is Lumbar Radiculopathy?
Lumbar radiculopathy refers to a condition in which a spinal nerve root in the lower back becomes irritated or compressed. It is typically caused by conditions such as a herniated disc or spinal stenosis that result in nerve root compression. This leads to radicular pain, a pain that radiates along the path of a lumbar nerve root, often into the hip, thigh, or leg.
This condition most commonly affects the lumbar spine, which houses the large nerves responsible for motor and sensory function in the lower limbs. When a spinal nerve root becomes compressed or inflamed, it can trigger a range of uncomfortable and sometimes debilitating symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms of Lumbar Radiculopathy
A common symptom of lumbar radiculopathy is pain radiating down the leg, often referred to as sciatica due to involvement of the sciatic nerve, the longest spinal nerve in the body. This leg pain may be sharp, burning, or feel like an electric shock.
Additional symptoms may include:
- Back pain, especially in the lower region
- Muscle weakness in the leg or foot
- Decreased sensation or tingling along the affected nerve distribution
- Pain that worsens with certain movements, like bending or sitting
- Reduced reflexes or mobility
Symptoms often affect one side of the body and may vary in severity based on the degree of nerve compression and duration of the condition.
Causes of Lumbar Radiculopathy
Lumbar radiculopathy is typically caused by structural issues in the spine that put pressure on the lumbar nerve root. These include:
- A herniated disc, where the soft inner material of a disc bulges out, compressing the nearby nerve roots
- Degenerative disc disease or arthritis, which can narrow the spinal canal
- Spondylolisthesis, where one vertebra slips forward over another
- Bone spurs or thickened ligaments due to aging
- Spinal infections or tumors (less common)
These issues can all contribute to pinched nerve conditions that interfere with the function of the spinal nerve root.
Effective management often begins with conservative treatments like physical therapy, oral medications, and steroid injections to reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort.
Physical Therapy for Lumbar Radiculopathy
Physical therapy plays a central role in the treatment of lumbar radiculopathy. At Paspa Physical Therapy, we focus on customized, one-on-one sessions led exclusively by experienced therapists, never aides or trainers. This personalized care ensures effective recovery tailored to your exact needs.
Therapeutic goals typically include:
- Alleviating nerve root compression
- Improving flexibility and core strength
- Enhancing posture to relieve spinal stress
- Preventing further nerve compression or injury
Our fully equipped gym allows for progressive strength-building while our private treatment rooms ensure patient comfort and privacy. Treatments may incorporate manual therapy, neural mobilization, and core stabilization exercises. Modalities like heat, ice, or electrical stimulation may also be used to relieve low back pain and radicular pain.
Paspa Physical Therapy is a trusted destination in Manhattan for individuals seeking targeted and effective recovery options, especially when dealing with sciatic nerve discomfort and back pain from lumbar issues.
When to See Your Healthcare Provider
If you’re experiencing persistent leg pain, numbness, or muscle weakness that interferes with daily activities, it’s important to see a healthcare provider. A thorough physical exam and diagnostic imaging, such as an MRI, can confirm the presence of nerve compression or a herniated disc.
You should also consult your provider if:
- Symptoms worsen or do not improve with rest
- You develop bladder or bowel issues (a medical emergency)
- Pain continues after receiving oral steroids or steroid injections
- You’re considering surgical treatments
Many patients find that with early intervention and physical therapy, surgical options can be avoided altogether.
Start Your Recovery with Paspa Physical Therapy
If you’re struggling with symptoms of lumbar radiculopathy, don’t wait for things to get worse. At Paspa Physical Therapy, we offer expert, individualized care using evidence-based techniques and years of clinical experience. We believe in one-on-one treatments, no new grads, no assistants, just dedicated therapists focused solely on your recovery.
Located in the heart of Manhattan, our facility features private rooms and a full gym to help you recover in comfort and privacy. We specialize in helping patients overcome low back pain, nerve root compression, and the challenges of radicular pain without relying solely on medications or surgery. Contact us today and take the first step toward lasting relief!
Our Services
Condition and Injuries We Treat