A. Radiating pain down leg – Sciatica (lumbar radiculopathy)
Intro: Sciatica (lumbar radiculopathy) is a condition involving irritation of the nerve roots coming out of the lower back.
Symptoms: Numbness, tingling, and/or sharp burning pain radiating down back of the leg. There may be associated weakness as well.
Treatment: may involve warm compress, physical therapy, and medication. If unresolved, an epidural steroid injection or even surgery may be occasionally required to treat this condition. It is advised to seek medical attention for evaluation of this condition as soon as possible.
B. No radiating pain – Paraspinal muscle spasm/lumbar spine disorder
Intro: Paraspinal muscle spasm is a common cause of low back pain that may be brought on by core muscle weakness, core muscle strain, or an underlying lumbar spine condition such as arthritis. Improper posture may exacerbate this condition.
Symptoms: Tightness and pain on motion of the lower back.
Treatment: may involve warm compress, physical therapy, and medication. If underlying spine condition is involved an epidural steroid injection or even surgery may be occasionally done. It is advised to seek medical attention for evaluation.