Lumbar radiculitis is nerve irritation that occurs due to damage to the discs between the vertebrae. Disc damage and impairment occurs because of trauma, degeneration of the outer ring of the disc, or both. Consequently, the central soft portion of the disc extrudes out or herniates through the outer ring of the disc and impinges on the spinal cord and / or the emerging nerves.
The condition is characterized by pain which tends to radiate from the lumbar spine to the buttock, down the back of the leg. You will experience discomfort anywhere along the nerve pathway. The pain may be mild or sharp, or a burning sensation or agonizing discomfort. Pain aggravates on coughing or sneezing, and protracted periods of sitting. There may also be associated tingling and numbness in the legs.
Causes And Diagnosis Of Lumbar Radiculitis
The disorder is triggered when the nerves in the lumbar region get impinged, typically by a herniated disk in the spine or due to a bone spur on the vertebrae. Rarely, the nerve may get pinched by a tumor or may get damaged by diabetes.
Diagnosis
- X-ray: Will demonstrate a bone spur which may be pressing on to a nerve.
- MRI: Produces detailed images of the bone and soft tissues revealing the presence of a herniate disc.
- CT scan: A contrast dye is introduced in to the spinal canal before the X-ray is done. The dye circulates within the spinal cord and nerves, which appear white on the scan.
Natural Ways To Treat Lumbar Radiculitis
These home remedies and natural treatment afford immense relief from the symptoms of sciatica.
- Aromatherapy: Essential oils are wonderful for most pains and aches. Massaging with aroma essential oils will allay pain and discomfort in the lower back, thighs and calves. Experts recommend a blend of Clove essential oil, Nutmeg essential oil and Lavender essential oil to manage sciatica like pain successfully. Blend with carrier oil such as sesame seed or olive oil and massage on to the spine and back of the legs for relief.
- Ginger: Have a glass of warm ginger tea daily. Gingerols in ginger battles pains and inflammations effectively.
- Soy: Soy proteins are strongly advocated for treating a host of locomotor problems including sciatica and lower back pain. Have a bowl of roasted or boiled soy every day, or opt for a cup of soy milk.
- Homeopathy: Homeopathy drugs are a safe, effective and natural way of managing lower back pain efficiently. Confer with a homeopathic practitioner and start treatment. Arnica, Sulphur and Rhus Tox are beneficial medicines for nerve impingement.
- Heat application / fomentation offer substantial relief. Use hot packs, a heat lamp or a heating pad.
- Physiotherapy and stretching exercises for the lumbar spine help you feel better and release a lot of the nerve root compression. Steer clear of bouncing, jerking or twisting during the stretch and hold a stretch for 30 seconds.
- Over-the-counter medications are advised in cases of extreme pain to allay some of the discomfort before you opt for the home remedies.
Chiropractic treatment: Spinal manipulation / adjustment is one effective form of therapy that chiropractors use to manage back pain and reduced spinal mobility. This therapy helps reinstate spinal movement and, consequently enhance function and diminish pain.