Overview
This condition is an irritation or compression of one or more nerve roots in the lumbar spine. Because these nerves travel to the hips, buttocks, legs and feet, an injury in the lumbar spine can cause symptoms in these areas.
Causes:
Herniated disc: a rupture in the fibrous outer wall of a vertebral disc, which allows the soft nucleus of the disc to bulge outward. This bulge can press harmfully against a nerve root. Degenerative disc disease: when a spinal disc weakens, allowing vertebral bones above and below the disc to shift out of position. The bones can touch, pinching nearby nerve roots. Spinal Stenosis: when bones, discs or joints of the spine degenerate and push into the spinal canal or foramen space.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include pain, weakness, numbness and tingling, and may vary depending on the level of the injury.