symptoms of a pinched nerve in the lower back

One of the most common lower back complaints at Acland Street Physiotherapy is symptoms of a pinched nerve. This is a condition where lower back pain occurs as a result of a nerve in the lower spine is being compressed by a nearby bone or soft tissue structure. The pressure from the pinch may causes pain, numbness, burning or tingling in the lower back, legs or feet. Some people may also call this condition "sciatica". 

The common causes of this condition are:

• injury or inflammation which may be putting pressure on the nerves
• spinal stenosis or the narrowing of the spinal column
• spondylolisthesis when a vertebra slips out of place
• herniated disc when the the discs between the vertebra become compressed
• an infection of the spinal discs, joints or bones
• osteoporosis ("brittle bones") which can cause painful fractures

Often such conditions do not need further x-rays, CT scans or MRIs and respond extremely well to physiotherapy treatment, which may include manual therapy, heat therapy, dry needling, postural taping, pain and postural education and a specific exercise program. 

It is important to note that you should seek emergency medical attention or see your doctor if:

1. There is severe or sudden numbness or paralysis in the legs
2. Loss of bowel or bladder control
3. Severe pain in the legs preventing you from moving freely
4. Foot drop
5. Unexplained rapid weight loss
6. Constant thoracic (mid back) or lower back night pain