Pinched Nerve In The Lower Back

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A pinched nerve in the lower back can be a cause for great concern for those suffering from back pain. Commonly referred to as sciatica, the condition is usually triggered by a herniated disk pressing against a spinal root. While the problem can affect any part of your body; it is your back that is most susceptible to the condition. Here's more.

The spinal roots that are affected by pinched nerves join together to form the sciatic nerve. This important nerve is responsible for sending neurological impulses to and from the lower part of your body. Thus, a pinched nerve in that area can be very difficult condition to cope and live with.

Muscle imbalances are usually to be blamed for this ailment. The imbalance of the muscles can exert pressure on the nerves- leading to the condition. However, this is something that develops over the time and rarely occurs overnight. An incorrect sitting posture or a poor posture in general can trigger the same and even aggravate it by pulling on the muscles unevenly.

Many symptoms are associated with pinched nerve in the lower back. Common signs include a persistent tingling in the back, buttocks, legs and feet; numbness of the ankles, a burning sensation in the leg muscles and a general feeling of weakness in the leg and foot muscles. Swelling may occur in the affected area as well and is generally pronounced during pregnancy.

Cauda Equina is a debilitating disease that's been associated with pinched nerves in the lower back. Symptoms for the same include loss of control over bowel or bladder movements and numbness in the buttocks and genitals. You must consult a physician immediately if you experience either of these symptoms. Left untreated, the condition may lead to permanent nerve damage in the affected areas and also result in lifelong functional disability.

The pain that results from a pinched nerve can be quite difficult to deal with. Fortunately, the condition can be resolved with comprehensive treatment. In many cases, the compressed nerves may even heal by themselves. So, even though the severity of the pain may be scary, do have faith that it is temporary and will not cause any permanent damage.

Physicians usually recommend muscle relaxants and other such medication for temporary pain relief. However, to permanently cure pinched nerves, you must first correct the muscle imbalances triggering the condition.

So, don't panic if you're suffering from pinched nerve in the lower back. Instead, work on the problem to ensure a speedy recovery for yourself.