When the disc between your fourth (L4) and fifth (L5) lumbar vertebrae bulges or herniates, it may irritate or compress the L4 or L5 nerve roots. These nerves carry both sensory input (dermatomes) and motor function (myotomes). When compromised, you may experience radiating pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness down your leg or into your foot.

Symptoms Linked with the L4 and L5 Nerve Roots

L4 nerve root: Pain or altered sensation may run down the front of the thigh, inner shin, or around the knee. Weakness may appear when trying to straighten the knee (quadriceps).
L5 nerve root: May cause discomfort or tingling along the outer thigh, front of the shin, or top of the foot, including the big toe. You might also find it harder to lift your foot upward (dorsiflexion).

Such patterns are important clues during the evaluation: they help differentiate between simple muscle strain, joint irritation, and true nerve root compression.

How We Evaluate at Woodroof Chiropractic in Olathe

At our clinic, the assessment includes:

Sensory testing of the suspected dermatome (skin area)
Myotome (muscle strength) evaluation
Reflex checks (such as the patellar and ankle reflexes)
Orthopedic and neurological tests to determine whether the cause is mechanical, disc-related, or both

This comprehensive exam helps develop an accurate diagnosis and a targeted care plan.

Treatment Strategies to Address the Problem

Rather than just treating symptoms, our treatment focuses on the root cause of nerve irritation:

Spinal (vertebral) decompression therapy to reduce pressure on the affected nerve root
Gentle chiropractic adjustments to restore proper joint motion and intervertebral alignment
Hydromassage or soft tissue therapies to relieve muscle tension and support recovery
Prescribed home exercises and stabilization stretches to strengthen supporting muscles and improve flexibility

Frequently Asked Questions

Q : What causes an L4 or L5 disc bulge?
A: Common causes include degeneration (wear-and-tear) of the disc, trauma, repeated flexion/rotation activities, and poor posture. Over time, the disc’s inner nucleus can push outward, compressing the nerve root.

Q : Will chiropractic care help with my leg or foot symptoms?
A: Yes — when nerve root compression is involved, chiropractic adjustments combined with decompression therapy and supportive care can reduce pressure on the nerve, ease pain, and improve function.

Q : How do I know whether it’s L4 or L5 nerve involvement?
A: It comes down to detailed clinical testing (sensory, motor, reflex) and sometimes imaging. Patterns of symptoms help determine which nerve is being irritated.

Get Relief for Nerve-Related Leg Pain in Olathe

If you’re experiencing burning, tingling, or weakness running from your low back down your leg — it may be due to an L4 or L5 disc bulge affecting the nerve root. At Woodroof Chiropractic & Acupuncture, located at 1463 E 151st Street, Olathe, KS 66062, we provide non-invasive spinal decompression and focused chiropractic care to help you restore mobility, reduce nerve pain, and return to your active life. Call 913-735-6351 to schedule your evaluation today.