Low Back Pain and Sciatica: Early Recognition to Prevent Serious Complications

However, when pain radiates from the lower back to the buttocksand down the back of the thigh and leg, it may indicate sciatica – a common neurological syndrome caused by compression or irritation of the lumbar nerve roots.

Dr. Lê Thị Nhung, Department of Neurology, Hanoi French Hospital, explains:

“The sciatic nerve is the largest and longest nerve in the body, originating from the lower back and running through the buttocks, down the back of the thighs, and into the feet . Sciatica occurs when the nerve roots forming the sciatic nerve are irritated or compressed. Patients may experience symptoms such as:

• Lower back pain radiating along the path of the sciatic nerve into the leg
• Sharp, electric shock–like or burning pain, often worsened by coughing, sneezing, or straining
• Numbness, tingling, or reduced sensation in the leg
• Muscle weakness in the lower limb, causing difficulty walking or standing for long periods.”

Symptoms typically affect one side but may involve both legs in more severe cases.

Common causes of sciatica

The most common cause of sciatica is lumbar disc herniation.

Other possible causes include:

• Degenerative changes of the lumbar spine leading to foraminal narrowing
• Lumbar spinal canal stenosis
• Spondylolisthesis
• Spinal trauma or other structural abnormalities

In older adults, sciatica is often associated with degenerative changes of the spine and intervertebral discs. In younger individuals, it is more commonly related to disc herniation due to overexertion or improper posture.

When should you seek medical attention?

You should consult a specialist if you experience:

• Low back pain lasting more than 5–7 days without improvement or recurring frequently
• Pain radiating to the leg accompanied by numbness or weakness
• Difficulty walking or standing for extended periods
• Warning signs such as weakness in both legs, loss of sensation, or urinary disturbances

Early evaluation helps identify the underlying cause and prevents long-term nerve damage.

Diagnosis and treatment at HFH

At Hanoi French Hospital (HFH), patients with low back pain and sciatica are assessed through a multidisciplinary approach. The diagnostic process may include:

• Comprehensive neurological examination to assess motor function, sensation, and reflexes
• MRI of the lumbar spine to detect disc herniation, spinal stenosis, or other structural abnormalities
• Additional tests as needed to confirm the diagnosis

Depending on the severity, treatment options may include:

• Medical therapy to relieve pain and inflammation
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation to improve mobility and reduce spinal load
• Interventional procedures or surgery in cases of severe nerve compression

With an experienced medical team and advanced diagnostic equipment, HFH provides individualized treatment plans aimed not only at relieving pain but also restoring function and preventing recurrence.

For more information, please contact our HOTLINE: 024 3577 1100, or send us a message via the Hanoi French Hospital Facebook page or WhatsApp: +84 903 497 078.