The lumbar spine contains five vertebrae (L1–L5) that protect the spinal cord and support body weight. Nerves branch off from the spinal cord in this region and travel down into the legs. When one of these nerves becomes pinched, inflamed, or damaged, the result is lumbar radiculopathy.

Sciatica is the most common form of lumbar radiculopathy and typically affects only one side of the body.

Patients with lumbar radiculopathy may experience:

• Sharp, shooting, or burning pain radiating from the low back into the buttock and down the leg

• Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot

• Muscle weakness in the affected leg

• Pain that worsens with sitting, coughing, or sneezing

• Difficulty standing or walking for long periods

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may come and go, depending on the level of nerve involvement.

Lumbar radiculopathy is usually caused by a condition that puts pressure on a spinal nerve, such as:

• Herniated disc – the most common cause, when disc material presses on a nerve root

• Degenerative disc disease – wear and tear that reduces disc height and space for nerves

• Spinal stenosis – narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses nerves

• Bone spurs (osteophytes) – bony growths that can crowd nerve spaces

• Trauma or injury – sudden impact to the spine

• Repetitive strain – heavy lifting, twisting, or prolonged sitting

Risk increases with age, obesity, lack of exercise, and occupations involving heavy physical work.