Table 4.

Diagnostic criteria for acute painful lumbosacral radiculopathy

Pain is reported in unilateral or bilateral lower extremities Pain is intermittent/recurring or constant for less than half the days in 6 months Clinical signs and symptoms that indicate that the pain pathology is related to compression of the lumbar spinal nerves Neurologic deficits including diminished sensation (proprioception, fine touch, and temperature), motor strength, and/or reflexes EMG/NCS abnormalities Radiographic evidence of nerve compression consistent with patient symptoms and findings from the physical exam (CT or MRI) Pain may also be reported in the lumbar spine area, defined as the space between the lower posterior margin of the rib cage and the horizontal gluteal fold*

CT = computed tomography; EMG = electromyography; MRI = magnetic resonance imaging; NCS = nerve conduction study.

^*While not required to meet Core Diagnostic Criteria, this may be used to support classification.