What is the main symptom associated with a herniated lumbar disc?

What is the main symptom associated with a herniated lumbar disc?

• A. Severe back pain
• B. Leg weakness
• C. Loss of sensation in toes
• D. Tingling in one foot

Answer: (D)

The main symptom associated with a herniated lumbar disc is often referred to as radiculopathy, characterized by tingling, numbness, or pain that radiates down into the legs. This is frequently due to the compression of nerve roots that occurs when the intervertebral disc protrudes and affects nearby nerve structures. Tingling in one foot can indicate that a nerve root is being affected, often correlating with specific areas of the leg which the nerve supplies. This sensation can manifest in various ways, including a tingling or pins-and-needles feeling, which is typical for conditions like herniated discs. While severe back pain, leg weakness, and loss of sensation in the toes may also be present with a herniated lumbar disc, the distinctive tingling in the foot specifically points to nerve involvement, making it a primary symptom of radiculopathy associated with this condition. Understanding the nature of the symptoms helps in diagnosing the condition accurately and addressing the appropriate treatment.

The main symptom associated with a herniated lumbar disc is often referred to as radiculopathy, characterized by tingling, numbness, or pain that radiates down into the legs. This is frequently due to the compression of nerve roots that occurs when the intervertebral disc protrudes and affects nearby nerve structures.

Tingling in one foot can indicate that a nerve root is being affected, often correlating with specific areas of the leg which the nerve supplies. This sensation can manifest in various ways, including a tingling or pins-and-needles feeling, which is typical for conditions like herniated discs.

While severe back pain, leg weakness, and loss of sensation in the toes may also be present with a herniated lumbar disc, the distinctive tingling in the foot specifically points to nerve involvement, making it a primary symptom of radiculopathy associated with this condition. Understanding the nature of the symptoms helps in diagnosing the condition accurately and addressing the appropriate treatment.