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Signs & Symptoms Neurology & Neurosurgery

Lumbar Disc Herniation
Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of disc herniation in the lower back are slightly different from symptoms in the cervical (link) or thoracic (link) parts of the spine. The spinal cord ends near the top lumbar vertebrae but the lumbar and sacral nerve roots continue through these spinal bones. A lumbar disc herniation may cause:

  • Lower back pain
  • Pain, weakness or tingling in the legs, buttocks and feet
  • Difficulty moving your lower back
  • Problems with bowel, bladder or erectile function, in severe cases

UCSF Health medical specialists have reviewed this information. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or other health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your provider.

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