To determine whether the lumbar spine is compressing the nerves, you can judge through symptoms, signs and auxiliary examinations under the guidance of your doctor. 1. Symptoms: Due to the compression of nerves by lumbar vertebrae, there may be corresponding manifestations of pressure on the innervation area, such as pain and numbness in the innervation area of the sciatic nerve, radiating pain, local skin sensory impairment, muscle atrophy, muscle strength loss, activity limitation and so on. 2. Physical examination: straight leg raising test can be done, that is, stretching the leg backward and pulling the sciatic nerve, or lifting the patient’s lower limbs and pulling the sciatic nerve, and observing whether the nerve has corresponding symptoms under the stimulation of leg raising. If the local nerve symptoms are aggravated or radiating pain occurs, consider nerve compression. 3. Auxiliary examination: such as MRI, CT, lumbar spine X-ray, etc., to determine whether the nerve root and dural sac are compressed and displaced, and whether there is dysfunction in the innervated area. Electromyography can also be used to observe abnormal neurophysiological discharges and determine the extent and location of the injury. When the above symptoms occur, it is recommended to consult a doctor in time to clarify the cause and carry out targeted treatment or therapy with the help of the doctor.