Diagram showing the dermatomal pattern of spinal nerve pain, showing T9 - T12, L1 - L4, and S2,3

Spinal Nerve Pain (Radiculopathy / Sciatica)

Cause:
Spinal nerve pain occurs when a nerve root in the lower spine becomes compressed or inflamed, often from disc degeneration, disc herniation, or foraminal narrowing. Irritation of these nerves produces radiating pain, numbness, or tingling along a predictable dermatome.

Pain may extend:

  • From the lower back
  • Into the buttock
  • Down the thigh
  • Into the groin (less common)
  • Or along the leg depending on the affected level

Symptoms:

  • Sharp, burning, or shooting pain that follows a recognizable dermatome
  • May be accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness
  • Pain often worsens with positions that stress the lumbar spine (sitting, bending, lifting)
  • Frequently mimics hip pain, but usually has a more distinct radiating pattern

Treatment:

Conservative Management

  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Activity modification
  • Physical therapy focused on lumbar mobility and core stability

Interventional Options

  • Spinal epidural steroid injections to reduce inflammation around the affected nerve root
  • Useful for diagnosing the pain source and for providing relief in persistent cases

Spinal Nerve Pain (Radiculopathy / Sciatica)

Cause:
Spinal nerve pain occurs when a nerve root in the lower spine becomes compressed or inflamed, often from disc degeneration, disc herniation, or foraminal narrowing. Irritation of these nerves produces radiating pain, numbness, or tingling along a predictable dermatome.

Pain may extend:

  • From the lower back
  • Into the buttock
  • Down the thigh
  • Into the groin (less common)
  • Or along the leg depending on the affected level

Symptoms:

  • Sharp, burning, or shooting pain that follows a recognizable dermatome
  • May be accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness
  • Pain often worsens with positions that stress the lumbar spine (sitting, bending, lifting)
  • Frequently mimics hip pain, but usually has a more distinct radiating pattern

Treatment:

Conservative Management

  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Activity modification
  • Physical therapy focused on lumbar mobility and core stability

Interventional Options

  • Spinal epidural steroid injections to reduce inflammation around the affected nerve root
  • Useful for diagnosing the pain source and for providing relief in persistent cases
Diagram showing the dermatomal pattern of spinal nerve pain, showing T9 - T12, L1 - L4, and S2,3

Schedule an Appointment with a Hip Pain Specialist

If you are suffering from hip pain, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Pappas today.

Request An Appointment
Contact
Hip Arthroscopy Services
Patient Info
© Copyright - Dr George Pappas. All Rights Reserved.