Hi, thanks for writing to HCM.
Your symptoms are most likely due to
Lumbar disc disease wherein a protruding
intervertebral disc might be pressing over the adjacent
nerve root resulting in pain radiating down the leg.
An MRI scan of the
lumbar spine is needed to establish the correct diagnosis.
The initial management of this condition is by the following measures -
- Take rest breaks throughout the day, but avoid sitting for long periods of time.
- Avoid lifting heavy weights as it imparts more strain on your back
- Change your daily activities so that you avoid movements that can cause further pain, especially bending forward and lifting as it will worsen the
disc protrusion.
- Use a lumbosacral back support to stabilize your spinal muscles
- After the initial pain has subsided, remedial exercises to strengthen the spine are very important to restore normal spinal movements and muscle strength. The main aim of exercise is to encourage mobility, reduce muscle spasm, prevent further deterioration in the muscles and speed recovery.
- Use analgesics like advil or aleve and muscle relaxants to relieve pain and muscle spasm, as needed.
Vitamin B12 supplements & Pregabalin may be helpful in controlling the
neuropathic pain.
If your fail to improve with the above measures, an Epidural steroid injection may provide good symptom relief for a few months.
Hope this information is helpful. Good day