What medical conditions could lower back pain radiating down the thigh be a warning sign of?

(Dan Tri Newspaper) - Lower back pain radiating down the thigh is a typical symptom of sciatica, which can be caused by a herniated disc. If left untreated, it can lead to complications such as muscle atrophy, leg weakness, loss of sensation, and seriously affect the ability to work.

Mr. NVNhan (Ho Chi Minh City) sent the following question to the Neurosurgery - Spine section for doctor's advice: “I am a ride-hailing driver and frequently experience lower back pain. Is this condition caused by sitting for long periods? Recently, the pain has worsened, radiating down my thighs, and sometimes I have difficulty bending over. Is this condition dangerous, doctor?”

Below is the answer from Dr. Le Trong Nghia, Deputy Head of the Neurosurgery and Spine Department, Nam Saigon International General Hospital.

Lower back pain is a very common problem among ride-hailing drivers. Sitting for long periods in a cramped position, with the whole body shaking while driving, is one of the main risk factors. A study on a group of drivers showed a high rate of back pain, closely related to uncomfortable seats, driving posture, and long working hours.

Worryingly, Mr. Nhan's symptoms have worsened. The pain is no longer confined to his back but has spread down his thigh. This is a typical sign of sciatica, most likely caused by a herniated disc. Prolonged pressure has caused the disc to rupture, and the nucleus pulposus has escaped, directly compressing the nerve root innervating the leg. The difficulty bending over is also a defensive muscle spasm to avoid further strain on the damaged nerve.

If left untreated, this condition can lead to serious complications such as muscle atrophy, limb weakness (leg weakness), loss of sensation, and severely affect the ability to walk and work.

Patients should not take this situation lightly. When symptoms spread down the leg, it means the compression is severe and they need to be examined by specialists in Neurosurgery and Spine Surgery as soon as possible.

The most important diagnostic method currently is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to accurately determine the location and extent of the herniation and nerve compression, thereby enabling timely treatment planning.

A doctor examines a patient (Photo: Provided by the hospital).

At South Saigon Hospital, the Neurosurgery - Spine Department is equipped with modern equipment and a team of experienced doctors in treating spinal diseases, especially those from occupations that require prolonged sitting, such as ride-hailing drivers, office workers, and long-distance truck drivers.

Early and appropriate specialist examination helps patients detect the extent of damage in a timely manner, preventing the pain from progressing to the stage of nerve compression causing weakness, paralysis, or affecting mobility.

To encourage the community to pay more attention to spinal health – an issue often neglected by those who work hard every day – Nam Saigon Hospital is launching a gratitude program offering a 50% discount on examination fees for spinal diseases in celebration of Vietnamese Teachers' Day. The program runs from November 15th to 30th and applies to customers who book appointments in advance.

Patients should schedule an early hospital visit to avoid unfortunate complications. With proper treatment, most patients can return to work after a short time and effectively control their symptoms.

South Saigon International General Hospital

Address: 88 Street No. 8, Trung Son Residential Area, Binh Hung Commune, Ho Chi Minh City

Hotline: 1800 6767

Website: https://benhviennamsaigon.com/

Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/BenhVienDaKhoaQuocTeNamSaiGon

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/suc-khoe/dau-that-lung-lan-xuong-dui-la-dau-hieu-canh-bao-benh-gi-20251118205813329.htm