CONDITION
Back Pain & Lumbar Radiculopathy
(Pinched Nerve in Lower Back)
When the pain is caused by lumbar radiculopathy, also known as a pinched nerve, it means a nerve exiting your lower spine is compressed or irritated. This often creates sharp low back pain that travels into the hip, buttock, or down the leg (sciatica). Some people also experience tingling, weakness, or burning sensations that interfere with daily life. At Silver Pain Centre, our physicians provide OHIP-covered consultations and advanced, minimally invasive treatments to help patients across Ontario manage chronic back pain and nerve-related symptoms.
What is Back Pain & Lumbar Radiculopathy?
Lumbar radiculopathy happens when a nerve leaving the lower spine is compressed or irritated. Pain can stay in the low back or travel into the hip, buttock, and down the leg. Many people describe sciatica, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the leg or foot. Coughing, bending, or long sitting can make symptoms worse. Relief often comes when lying down or gently walking.
Low back pain with shooting leg pain on one side
Pins and needles, numbness, or weakness in the leg or foot
Pain that follows a clear path from back to calf or foot
Movements like bending, twisting, or sitting aggravate symptoms
Why Does Back Pain & Lumbar Radiculopathy Occur?
Back and nerve pain usually reflect changes in the discs, joints, or canals that protect spinal nerves. Understanding the cause helps us target treatment.
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Disc herniation or bulge: Disc material presses on a nerve root and triggers sciatica
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Spinal stenosis: The canal narrows and pinches one or more nerves, often worse with standing or walking
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Degenerative disc or facet joint arthritis: Wear and tear reduces space around nerves and fuels inflammation
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Spondylolisthesis: One vertebra slips forward and crowds the exiting nerve
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Posture and muscle strain: Prolonged sitting, heavy lifting, or repetitive tasks overload the lower back
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Prior injury: Falls or motor vehicle collisions may leave lingering instability or scar tissue
At Silver Pain Centre, we look beyond temporary relief. We identify the specific nerve and structure involved so treatment is precise and progress is measurable.
How We Diagnose & Treat at Silver Pain Centre
Your visit starts with a focused history and neurological exam. If needed, we use imaging such as MRI or X-ray to confirm the source of compression. Then we match the treatment to your findings and goals.
Medication optimization or tapering: Safer pain control and fewer side effects
Epidural steroid injections: Reduce inflammation around irritated nerve roots
Selective nerve root blocks: Pinpoint the exact nerve and provide relief
Facet joint blocks and radiofrequency ablation: For facet-driven neck or low back pain that is not radicular
Image-guided procedures: Ultrasound or fluoroscopy for accuracy and safety
Peripheral nerve stimulation: Option for persistent neuropathic leg pain that resists other care
Neuromuscular electrical stimulation and activity guidance: Calm guarding, restore movement, and support rehab
When to Seek Help & How We Can Support You
If your pain shoots down your leg, causes tingling, numbness, or weakness, it may be a sign of a pinched nerve. These symptoms usually do not improve with rest or over-the-counter pain medication and can worsen over time if left untreated.
At Silver Pain Centre, we provide comprehensive, OHIP-covered consultations designed to help you find lasting relief. Here’s how we make a difference:
Collaborative Care
Fast Access
Advanced Diagnostics
Our North York facility uses imaging such as MRI, ultrasound, and fluoroscopy to pinpoint the exact source of your pain.
Non-Surgical Options
From nerve blocks to radiofrequency ablation, we provide targeted treatments to relieve pain and restore mobility.
Interventional pain procedures performed to date
Years of specialized pain management experience
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Patient-reported satisfaction based on post-visit surveys
Image-guided injections performed monthly
Explore Our Full Range of Pain Management Solutions
Learn about our pain management treatments and explore the options available at Silver Pain Centre.
Book A Consultation By Completing A Self-Referral Today!
If you’re struggling with back pain, sciatica, or a pinched nerve, don’t wait. The team at Silver Pain Centre will review your self-referral within 72 hours and schedule an OHIP-covered consultation to get you on the path to relief. Appointments are available in person or virtually.