Lumbar radiculopathy, commonly known as sciatica, is a condition characterized by pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which branches from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down each leg. Typically, sciatica affects only one side of the body, but can occur in both legs.

Causes of Lumbar Radiculopathy (Sciatica):

• Herniated or Bulging Discs: The most common cause of sciatica is a herniated disc in the spine pressing against the roots of the sciatic nerve.

• Bone Spurs: Overgrowths of bone can occur on the vertebrae and impinge on adjacent nerve roots.

• Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal can put pressure on the nerve roots leading to the sciatic nerve.

• Spondylolisthesis: This condition occurs when one vertebra slips over another, narrowing the space through which the nerve exits.

• Muscle Spasms: In some cases, spasms in the back or buttocks can compress the sciatic nerve. Piriformis syndrome can cause sciatica.

Impact on Life: Sciatica can significantly disrupt daily life due to intense pain, numbness, and sometimes tingling sensations that affect the lower back, buttocks, and legs. This pain can make sitting or standing for long periods difficult and uncomfortable, which can interfere with daily activities and employment. Physical activities, especially those involving lifting or bending, can exacerbate the pain, leading to limitations in mobility. This can be treated by lumbar or transforaminal epidural steroid injections, peripheral nerve stimulation, and piriformis muscle injection.