Pain in your legs that originates from your lower back is often due to a condition called sciatica, where a problem in your lower back irritates a nerve that runs down your leg.
Here's a breakdown of potential causes:
Potential Causes of Leg Pain from Lower Back Issues
According to the provided reference, here are a couple of common culprits:
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Herniated Disc: This occurs when the soft cushion between the vertebrae in your spine bulges or ruptures, putting pressure on nearby nerves. As mentioned in the reference, this can narrow the space around the spinal nerves, causing irritation and pain.
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Spinal Stenosis: This refers to the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can also compress the nerves. Again, as the reference notes, this narrowing can cause nerve pain and irritation.
| Condition | Description | Effect on Nerves | Symptoms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Herniated Disc | Bulging or rupture of the spinal disc. | Pressure on spinal nerves due to disc protrusion. | Leg pain (sciatica), numbness, tingling, weakness. |
| Spinal Stenosis | Narrowing of the spinal canal. | Compression of spinal nerves due to reduced space. | Leg pain (sciatica), numbness, cramping, weakness. |
Sciatica Explained
Sciatica itself isn't a condition, but rather a symptom. It's the pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back, through your hips and buttocks, and down each leg. Sciatica usually affects only one side of the body.
What to Do
If you are experiencing leg pain originating from your lower back, it's important to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. They can determine the underlying cause and recommend the appropriate course of action.
