Lower Back Pain

Degenerative Disc Disease

As the most common form of spinal disorder, degenerative disc disease is a frequent source of persistent pain for many patients suffering lower back pain. This condition affects the vertebrae, the bones that make up the spinal column. It causes the discs between the vertebrae to deteriorate, leading to back pain. Degenerative disc disease often involves the lower back, but it can also affect the neck and upper back. Some patients may experience a dull ache in their lower back, but others may experience sharp pains in the back. The pain often radiates to the buttocks, thighs, legs, and even arms.

The condition can be debilitating and prevent patients from performing the activities they enjoy. Treatment options include medication, physical therapy, and surgery. Surgery is the most common treatment and may involve removing the damaged discs. This can relieve the pain and restore mobility. Patients can expect conservative treatment for degenerative disc disease for a few weeks to months before surgery.

Lumbar radiculopathy

Lumbar radiculopathy is a condition that occurs when the spinal nerve roots become compressed. This may cause lower back, buttocks, thighs, calves, and feet pain. Symptoms often begin gradually and worsen over time. There are two types of lumbar radiculopathy: central and lateral. Mid lumbar radiculopathy is the result of damage to the spinal cord. It causes numbness or weakness in the legs, low back pain, and sometimes bowel or bladder problems.

Lateral lumbar radiculopathy is caused by compression of the nerves in the back. It causes numb legs, pain, and weakness in the buttocks and back. Lumbar radiculopathy is most commonly caused by a herniated disc or bulging of a disc in the spine. Other factors may include trauma, infection, tumors, or bone spurs. Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the symptoms, so consulting with a physician is necessary. Medications, physical therapy, and surgery may be used.