Spinal Canal Narrowing
Lumbar spinal stenosis is a syndrome of low back, buttock, and leg pains brought on by walking and relieved by sitting. Nerve compression in the back leads to symptoms in the legs. This syndrome is also often called “neurogenic claudication.” The leg symptoms from lumbar spinal stenosis can be similar to symptoms from peripheral neuropathy, hip/knee arthritis, and peripheral vascular disease.
Causes
As we age and accumulate degenerative changes, the bulging of the discs, arthritis of the joints, and bone spur formation lead to progressive narrowing of the spinal canal. Over time, the spinal canal narrowing can compress the nerves and cause leg symptoms.
Symptoms
- Low back and/or buttock pain
- Cramping leg pain and numbness/tingling
- Difficulty standing
- Difficulty walking
- Heaviness and weakness in legs
Treatment
Lumbar spinal stenosis is initially treated by medications, physical therapy, and/or injections. Decompression surgery may be necessary if conservative treatments fail.
