Aligned Integrated Health
Pinched Nerve in the Lower Back: Symptoms and Care
When Back Pain Reaches Into the Leg
A pinched nerve in the lower back, called lumbar radiculopathy, happens when a nerve root leaving the lower spine is compressed or irritated, often by a disc or narrowing around the joint. It can cause low back pain along with pain, leg numbness and tingling, or weakness that travels into the buttock, leg or foot. When the sciatic nerve is involved, it is often called sciatica, which we cover on our sciatica care page.
This page explains the symptoms of a pinched nerve in the lower back, what a pinched nerve in the lower back feels like, its common causes, and how we approach care.
- A neurological exam of strength, reflexes and sensation
- Gentle care with no cracking or twisting
- A plan that addresses posture, lifting and sitting habits
What Does a Pinched Nerve in the Lower Back Feel Like?
Each nerve root in the lower back supplies a specific area of the leg and foot, so symptoms often follow a path down the leg rather than staying in the back.
Key Features:
- Radiating Leg Pain: Sharp, burning or electric pain from the back into the buttock and leg.
- Numbness and Tingling: Pins and needles or numbness in the leg, foot or toes.
- Weakness: A foot that slaps or a leg that feels weak, which should be checked promptly.
Symptoms of a Pinched Nerve in the Lower Back and What Causes It
Here is how lumbar radiculopathy usually presents and what drives it.
Lumbar Radiculopathy Symptoms
Symptoms of a pinched nerve in the lower back include low back pain, pain that radiates down one leg, numbness and tingling in the leg or foot, weakness in the leg or foot, and pain that worsens with sitting, bending, coughing or sneezing. Symptoms are usually on one side.
Common Causes
A herniated or bulging disc is the most common cause, followed by age-related narrowing around the joints and nerve openings. Repeated heavy lifting, long periods of sitting, and injuries such as falls or car accidents can contribute. Deep buttock pain without a back source may instead be piriformis syndrome.
Leg Numbness and Tingling: When It Matters
Numbness and tingling that come and go with position are common with an irritated nerve. Numbness that is spreading, weakness that is getting worse, or symptoms in both legs need prompt evaluation.
Pinched Nerve Lower Back Treatment
Dr. Dan starts with a neurological exam and orders imaging when needed. Care may include gentle Pro Adjuster adjustments, structural rehabilitation when the curves of the spine are part of the picture, massage therapy for guarded muscles, and chiropractic with rehabilitation to strengthen the core and hips. We also work on how you sit, lift and sleep.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Get emergency care right away for loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness in the groin or inner thighs, or rapidly worsening weakness in the legs. These can signal severe nerve compression.
Related Conditions We Treat in Scottsdale
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if back pain is muscle or a nerve?
Muscle pain usually stays in the back and feels sore or tight. Nerve pain tends to travel into the buttock or leg and may come with numbness, tingling or weakness.
Can a chiropractor fix a pinched nerve in the lower back?
Chiropractic care can help many people with an irritated nerve by improving how the spine moves and reducing the load on it. Dr. Dan will refer you for medical care if your exam shows signs that need it.
How long does a pinched nerve usually last?
It varies with the cause and severity. Rather than guess, we track your strength, sensation and pain over time and adjust care accordingly.
Do you treat pinched nerves in Scottsdale?
Yes. Walk-ins are welcome. Call (480) 661-1977.
Get Help for a Pinched Nerve in Scottsdale, AZ
Aligned Integrated Health is at 10752 North 89th Place, Suite C130 in Scottsdale. Dr. Daniel J. Gerwig, D.C. has been practicing since 2001 and sees patients here himself. Most insurances are accepted and walk-ins are welcome.
New Patient Special. Includes the consultation, exam, report of findings and X-rays. See the current offer. Not valid for use with federally sponsored programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid.