A member asked:

Can permanent l5 nerve damage cause weakness and cramps in the calf muscle as well as buttock and leg pain?

6 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

In part: Permanent L-5 radiculopathy could cause buttock and leg pain, but the weakness would affect the shin. If calf problem, suggests the S-1 root instead. If you had surgery, postop scarring and arachnoiditis could affect several root levels.

Answered 12/21/2020

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Dr. Shawn Dalton-bethea answered

Specializes in Pain Management

L5 nerve damage: Hello. Did you have a nerve conduction test (electrodes placed on skin to test problems with nerves) with muscle test part (We call "EMG") where a needle is placed in the muscle to listen for new or old changes in the muscles? If L5 related, pain & cramps should be outer hip, side of thigh & calf & top of foot to big toe. IF S1 nerve is involved, then butt, back of leg, outer foot 4th & 5th toe

Answered 12/21/2020

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