Solace for Your Spine: How to Effectively Manage Lumbar Radiculopathy

QI Spine Clinic, 7 days ago

Understanding the Basics

Causes of Lumbar Radiculopathy

1. Spinal Stenosis: Spinal stenosis refers to the condition where the spinal canal narrows down, resulting in increased pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. It results from age-related issues or problems like arthritis. 
2. Spondylolisthesis: When one vertebra slips out of place over another vertebra, this condition can lead to spondylolisthesis. And it also potentially leads to nerve compression and radicular pain. 
3. Herniated Discs: Small disc-shaped structures present between every vertebra act as cushions, saving them from potential damage. When these discs bulge out or herniate, they can press against the nearby nerve root, causing nerve root irritation or discomfort. 
4. Degenerative Disc Disease: As we grow old the spinal disc loses hydration and elasticity, and becomes thinner and less effective in cushioning the vertebrae, which can cause irritation in the nearby nerve roots. 
5. Injury or Trauma: Injuries in the lower back due to accidents or trauma can also lead to nerve discomfort, becoming on of the causes of lumbar radiculopathy.
6. Heavy Lifting: Regular heavy lifting or wrong techniques of heavy lifting can also cause lower back pain and disc injuries that affect the nerve roots. 

Symptoms of Lumbar Radiculopathy

• Pain: Starting from the lower back, this radicular pain can run down to the leg. This pain is sharp, burning, or achy, similar to sciatica(pain that arises from sciatic nerves). 
• Numbness: Often known as a “pins and needles” sensation, numbness may occur in the legs or feet. 
• Weakness:  Weakness is quite common in the affected leg, which makes it difficult to do daily work properly. 
• Changed reflexes: Reflexes in the lower limb can be decreased. Make sure that your physician checks it at the time of examination. 
• Difficulty with Coordination: Although not common, some people may feel discomfort in coordination or balance, especially if weakness affects their legs. 
• Foot drop: If the nerve root that controls the ankle or foot is affected, it becomes difficult to lift the front part of the foot. 

Treatment of Lumbar Radiculopathy

1. Physical therapies: Exercise plans tailored to strengthen the muscles around the spine and enhance flexibility, reducing pressure on nerves. 
2. Medications: Some medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, help in the management of pain caused by Lumbar Radiculopathy. A doctor may also prescribe more powerful medication in some cases. 
3. Epidural Steroid Injection: If your condition is too severe, your doctor may give you an injection of corticosteroid to reduce inflammation and irritation around the nerve roots. 
4. Chiropractic Treatment: Chiropractic care can help in soothing the pressure on the never roots through proper realignment of the spine and improvement of mobility. 
5. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Psychological intervention in the form of CBT can be used to address the emotional aspects of chronic pain and the skills of managing it. 
6. Surgery: If the other conventional methods of treatment of Lumbar Radiculopathy fail to reduce the symptoms after weeks, and there is a slight degree of nerve compression, then your doctor will suggest surgery named discectomy or laminectomy. 

Dealing with Lumbar Radiculopathy

• Stay Active: While rest is important, becoming a couch potato can not help either. You need to stay active. For that, you can do some stretching exercises, and gentle moving can also help keep the spine relaxed. 
• Being Comfortable: Try to make your workspace comfortable. Use a chair with proper back support, and if you’re working on a computer, position the screen at eye level. 
• Mind-Body Wellness: Try to incorporate yoga and meditation into your daily routine. This can help with overall well-being, from physical to mental wellness. 
• Heat and Ice therapy: Apply a hot or cold pad to the affected area; it will provide relief. Ice helps soothe inflammation, while a hot pad helps relax muscles. 

Conclusion