Numbness and tingling in the lower back and legs are symptoms of a malfunctioningperipheral nerve.
However, some of the most common symptoms of a lumbar spine problem are experienced in the lower extremities.
One important function of nerves is to provide information about sensations from the body to your brain.
When these signals are damaged, interrupted, or irritated, the sensations can be experienced abnormally.
This can manifest as sensations of numbness, tingling, prickling, or other abnormalities of the skin.
This pressure on the nerve can cause abnormal sensations, commonly experienced as peripheral neuropathy.
Herniated Discs
Discs are the soft cushions that sit between adjacent vertebrae.
Normally, the disc is a flexible cushion that has good elasticity.
In some circumstances, the elastic disc tissue can become less flexible and prone to injury.
The numbness corresponds to the nerve being pinched.
Sitting for a long time can make it worse.
Less common causes include spinal tumors.Diabetescan also contribute by directly damaging the protective exterior coating of nerves, calledmyelin.
Castelli G, Desai KM, Cantone RE.Peripheral neuropathy: evaluation and differential diagnosis.Am Fam Physician.
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American Association of Neurological Surgeons.Spinal cord injury.
American Association of Neurological Surgeons.Spinal pain.
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.Herniated disk in the lower back.
