Radiating burning or aching sensation that runs from the lower back down the leg – Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

Radiating burning or aching sensation that runs from the lower back down the leg Diagnosis & Treatment in Dubai

A radiating burning or aching sensation running from the lower back down the leg, often described as sciatica, can be a debilitating symptom. Understanding the causes, diagnosis, and treatment options is crucial for managing this condition effectively.

Causes:

Sciatica typically arises from compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body. Common causes include:

• Herniated Disc: A herniated disc in the lower spine can press on the sciatic nerve roots. Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal can compress the nerves, leading to sciatica.
• Piriformis Syndrome: The piriformis muscle in the buttock can compress the sciatic nerve.
• Other Causes: Less common causes include tumors, infections, or injuries affecting the spine.

Diagnosis:

Diagnosis often involves a medical history review and physical examination:

• Medical History: Discussing the patient’s symptoms, including the location, intensity, and duration of pain, as well as any history of back injuries or other relevant medical conditions.
• Physical Exam: Assessing the patient’s posture, range of motion, and reflexes. Specific tests, such as the straight leg raise test, may be performed to assess nerve irritation.
• Imaging Tests: In some cases, imaging tests like MRI or CT scans may be recommended to visualize the spine and identify the cause of nerve compression.

Treatment:

Treatment approaches vary depending on the severity and underlying cause:

• Conservative Management: Most cases of sciatica improve with conservative treatment, including: Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like NSAIDs or acetaminophen can help manage pain.
• Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve flexibility, strength, and posture can be beneficial. Rest: Avoiding activities that aggravate the pain can promote healing.
• Heat or Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area can provide temporary pain relief.
• Medications: In some cases, stronger pain medications, muscle relaxants, or corticosteroids may be prescribed.
• Injections: Epidural steroid injections can deliver medication directly to the affected area to reduce inflammation and pain.
• Surgery: Surgery is typically considered only in severe cases when conservative treatment fails to provide relief or when there are signs of nerve damage.

It’s important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Early intervention can help prevent the condition from becoming chronic and improve outcomes.

Related Treatments

• Sciatica Clinic