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Lumbar Stenosis & Neurogenic Claudication

What is paediatric scoliosis and kyphosis?

Lumbar spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back that can compress the spinal nerves. Neurogenic claudication is a common symptom of this compression, causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs, especially during walking or standing.

Symptoms

The typical symptoms of lumbar stenosis and neurogenic claudication include:

  • Lower back pain and stiffness
  • Leg pain, numbness, or tingling that worsens with walking or standing
  • Weakness or heaviness in the legs
  • Relief of symptoms when sitting or bending forward
  • Difficulty walking long distances due to pain or discomfort

Causes

Lumbar stenosis usually results from:

  • Degenerative changes such as arthritis and disc wear
  • Thickening of ligaments within the spinal canal
  • Bone spurs that develop with age
  • Previous spinal injury or surgery
  • Congenital spinal canal narrowing in some cases

Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves:

  • Physical examination assessing neurological function and gait
  • Imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans to visualise spinal canal narrowing and nerve compression

Treatment and Surgical Management

Treatment options usually start with:

  • Physiotherapy and exercise to improve strength and flexibility
  • Medications and pain management strategies
  • Lifestyle modifications and assistive devices if needed

Surgery is recommended for patients with severe symptoms or neurological compromise and typically involves:

  • Decompressive surgery to relieve pressure on the nerves
  • Spinal fusion or stabilisation if there is spinal instability