Lumbar radiculopathy is a condition that affects the lower back causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs, buttocks, and feet. It results from nerve irritation or compression in the lumbar spine, which often occurs due to damage or degeneration of the intervertebral discs or structures surrounding the spinal cord. The symptoms of lumbar radiculopathy can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that impairs your ability to move, work, or perform daily activities. As a result, many people wonder what triggers their lumbar radiculopathy and if it’s okay to push through the pain and continue with their normal activities or seek physiotherapy or chiropractic care. In this blog post, we will explore this topic in detail and provide you with some helpful advice to manage lumbar radiculopathy.
Lumbar radiculopathy is a complex condition that requires proper diagnosis and treatment to improve. If you push through the pain, it may worsen your symptoms and lead to long-term complications such as chronic pain, muscle weakness, or even permanent nerve damage. In some cases, pushing through the pain can also cause tissue inflammation, which can further irritate the affected nerves and prolong the healing process. Therefore, it’s not recommended to push through lumbar radiculopathy without seeking professional advice from a qualified physiotherapist or chiropractor.
If you’re experiencing lumbar radiculopathy symptoms, the first step is to consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis. They may recommend imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to identify the underlying cause of your back pain and nerve irritation. Once you have a diagnosis, your doctor may refer you to a physiotherapist or chiropractor for specialized care. These healthcare professionals can offer various treatments such as physiotherapy, exercise programs, and pain management techniques to help alleviate your symptoms and promote healing.
Physiotherapy and chiropractic care can be effective in treating lumbar radiculopathy, but it’s essential to choose the right therapist for your needs. Physiotherapy focuses on performing exercises and stretches that improve muscle strength, flexibility, and joint mobility. On the other hand, chiropractic care specializes in spinal manipulation and adjustment techniques that help to reduce nerve compression and restore proper spinal alignment. Your healthcare provider can recommend the best treatment approach depending on the severity and location of your lumbar radiculopathy.
In addition to seeking professional care, it’s crucial to take self-care measures to manage your symptoms and prevent further damage. These measures include maintaining good posture, avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activities, using proper lifting techniques, applying ice or heat to the affected area, and taking rest breaks as needed. You can also use over-the-counter pain relievers or topical creams to ease your discomfort and reduce inflammation. However, it’s essential to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and avoid overusing these medications.
In conclusion, pushing through lumbar radiculopathy can be detrimental to your health and recovery. It’s vital to seek professional help from a qualified physiotherapist or chiropractor to receive proper treatment and prevent long-term complications. and see if you can live a long life with your lumbar radiculopathy. These healthcare professionals are trained to diagnose and manage lumbar radiculopathy and offer a range of treatments that can alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life. By combining professional care with self-care measures, you can manage your lumbar radiculopathy symptoms and promote healing effectively. Don’t hesitate to seek help and advice if you’re struggling with lumbar radiculopathy – it’s okay to ask for help.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Tyler Baron, BASc, DC or another Kitchener chiropractor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
