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Is it a slipped disc? Pinched nerve? Sciatica? Leg Pain May Stem from pinched nerve in the low back

Last updated Wednesday, March 05, 2008

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Causes and effects

What causes lumbar radiculitis?

Irritation of the nerve root in any of the five lumbar-vertebrae nerves or the sacral nerves could lead to radiculitis. The nerve irritation is typically caused by herniated or prolapsed disc, by arthritis of the facet joints in that region of the spine, or by narrowing of the lumbar spine, called stenosis.

What does lumbar radiculitis do?

Symptoms of radiculitis (inflammation of a nerve root in the lower spine, causing pain, tingling, numbness or a burning sensation in the back and legs) vary between patients, depending on which of six lumbo-sacral nerve roots is irritated. Some patients can experience numbness in the big toe and foot, and others will experience pain at or above the hip, the buttocks, and elsewhere. Pain can be stinging and sharp, or dull. Patients can find it difficult to be comfortable while lying down.

Ignoring symptoms can lead to a change in their frequency, intensity or character.

Surgery for Lumbar Radiculitis at the University of Washington

If you are interested in making an appointment to discuss this procedure, you can request an appointment using our online referrals website. To request a referral online, please click here. You can also call 206-598-4288 (outside the Seattle area: 800-440-3280) to make an appointment.

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