Lower Back and Leg Pain - What You Need to Know
Around 80% of the worldwide population is said to suffer from at least one type of back pain, but one of the most common is the combination of lower back and leg pain. This combination of pain is debilitating and bothersome, limiting the daily activities of the sufferer. Lower back and leg pain can be caused by different factors, not all of which are related to the spine.
Lower back and leg pain or the lower extremities pain in a dermatomal pattern is called the lumbar radiculopathy. The dermatome is a specific part of the lower extremity which is innervated by a certain lumbar nerve. This pain combination is actually caused by the compression of the spinal nerve roots in the spine's lumbar region. Lower back and leg pain can be diagnosed with the patient's medical history and medical examination.
The physician initially uses the medical history of the patient to understand his back pain problem. This is the reason why it is very important for the patient to be specific when giving answers to medical questions, especially to those related to the onset of pain. Keeping your medical records, including your past medical findings, medications, and surgeries is helpful in diagnosing your condition, especially if your problem is the lower back and leg pain combination, since this is not a common type of back pain.
For problems with lower back and leg pain combination, it is helpful to note every activity you do. Document the time when you felt the pain, the activities that worsen the pain, as well as those that provide relief to your symptoms. You should also note which causes more pain, your lower back or your leg. Your physician may also ask you if you are experiencing any weakness or numbness in your legs or it it's difficult for you to walk. Keep in mind that understanding what's causing your problem is based on all the information you provide your physician.
When your lower back and leg pain combination is sharp and burning that radiates down the leg, you may be suffering from sciatica. However the pain may not always begin at the lower back. The pain in the leg is caused by the compression of nerve roots with generally specific patterns, depending on the level of the nerves being compressed. After reviewing your medical history, your doctor will ask you to undergo physical examination to help him if your symptoms are caused by problems with spinal root compression.
Initial treatment of lower back and leg pain combination is based on the assumption that the pain will go away without any treatment. Nevertheless, there are different treatment options. Some are said to be effective while some are still questionable. Another proven treatment for this condition is home care as bed rest is still one of the most initial advices you will get from your physician. Application of local heat and ice can also provide relief for pain in lower back and leg. If pain could not be controlled by rest, ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help control the pain. If symptoms persist, consult with your doctor immediately.
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