Dr. Ratish Kumar Mishra is a highly skilled and dedicated Consultant Orthopaedic and Spine surgeon currently associated with Sanjivini Hospital in Gomti Nagar, Lucknow. His areas of expertise include Neck Pain, Back Pain, Sciatica Pain, Slipped Disc, Lumbar Canal Stenosis, Spondylolisthesis, Fractures in the Spine, Spinal Cord Injury, Spine Tumors, and infections in the spine. He is also skilled in Scoliotic spine surgery and Deformity correction surgeries. He is well-versed in open, Minimally Invasive, and Endoscopic spine surgeries. He can perform anterior and posterior Cervical, Thoracic, and Lumbar spine surgery.”

CALL US 9810578268
 

Lumbar Radiculopathy / Sciatica

Lumbar Radiculopathy / Sciatica

Lumbar radiculopathy, commonly known as sciatica, is a condition characterized by the compression or irritation of nerves in the lower back, resulting in pain, numbness, and weakness along the sciatic nerve’s pathway. To empower the public with knowledge, it’s crucial to understand the symptoms, causes, preventive measures, and available treatments for lumbar radiculopathy.

Symptoms:

  1. Radiating Pain:
    • Lumbar radiculopathy typically manifests as a shooting or burning pain that travels from the lower back down one leg, following the sciatic nerve.
  2. Numbness and Tingling:
    • Individuals may experience sensations of numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” feeling in the leg or foot.
  3. Muscle Weakness:
    • Weakness in the muscles of the leg or foot can occur, affecting mobility and coordination.
  4. Difficulty Sitting:
    • Pain may intensify when sitting for prolonged periods, making it uncomfortable for individuals with lumbar radiculopathy.
  5. Loss of Reflexes:
    • Reflexes may be diminished or absent, indicating nerve involvement.

Causes:

  1. Herniated Discs:
    • Discs in the lumbar spine can herniate, causing compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve.
  2. Spinal Stenosis:
    • Narrowing of the spinal canal in the lumbar region can lead to pressure on the nerves, contributing to radiculopathy.
  3. Degenerative Disc Disease:
    • Wear and tear on the lumbar discs can result in degeneration, potentially causing radiculopathy.
  4. Spondylolisthesis:
    • Displacement of one vertebra over another can compress nerve roots, leading to symptoms.

Prevention:

  1. Maintain Healthy Posture:
    • Proper posture, especially during sitting and lifting, helps prevent undue stress on the lower back.
  2. Regular Exercise:
    • Engaging in exercises that strengthen the core muscles and promote flexibility supports lumbar spine health.
  3. Lift Properly:
    • Using proper lifting techniques, such as bending at the knees and not the waist, can reduce the risk of lumbar spine injuries.
  4. Healthy Weight Management:
    • Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the strain on the lower back, decreasing the likelihood of radiculopathy.

Treatment:

  1. Conservative Measures:
    • Initial management often includes rest, application of ice or heat, and over-the-counter pain medications.
  2. Physical Therapy:
    • Targeted exercises and stretches can improve flexibility, strengthen supporting muscles, and alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve.
  3. Medication:
    • Pain relievers, muscle relaxants, and anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed to manage symptoms.
  4. Epidural Steroid Injections:
    • Injections of corticosteroids into the affected area can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
  5. Surgery:
    • In cases of severe or persistent lumbar radiculopathy, surgical interventions such as discectomy or laminectomy may be considered to relieve nerve compression.

Conclusion:

Lumbar radiculopathy can impact daily life, but with a comprehensive understanding of its symptoms, causes, preventive measures, and treatment options, individuals can actively manage and alleviate their symptoms. If experiencing signs of lumbar radiculopathy or persistent lower back and leg discomfort, seeking professional medical advice is essential. Early intervention and adherence to preventive strategies contribute to improved outcomes and a better quality of life.

Always there to care.

Book Appointment

    Patient’s Reviews

    Dr. Ratish is an exceptional Orthopedic Surgeon whose expertise and dedication truly stand out. His meticulous attention to detail, coupled with his compassionate patient care, make him a remarkable choice for anyone seeking orthopedic treatment. With a deep commitment to improving his patients' quality of life, Dr. Ratish’s skill and professionalism are truly admirable.

    Shefali Chimnani

    Patient

    Dr Ratish is an exceptional specialist in spine care. His expertise is evident in his precise diagnoses and effective treatments. His dedication to patient well-being and extensive experience makes him a top choice for anyone seeking spine-related medical assistance.

    Aman Ahuja

    Patient