Pain, tingling or numbness spreading from the lower back to the leg is often caused by a disc prolapse, also known as PLID.
What is PLID?
Between each vertebra sits a soft, cushion-like disc. With age, lifting heavy loads incorrectly or sitting for long periods, the inner part of the disc can push out and press on a nearby nerve. This is called PLID.
Common symptoms
Back pain that travels down the leg, tingling or numbness, pain that worsens on walking or sitting, and sometimes leg weakness. A disc problem in the neck causes similar symptoms in the arm.
Treatment
Most patients improve with medication, rest, physiotherapy and lifestyle changes. Surgery may be needed if leg weakness increases, bladder or bowel control is affected, or there is no improvement after adequate treatment. The decision is made after examining the patient and reviewing the MRI.
