Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
The condition occurs when the spinal canal, which encases and protects the nerve roots narrows and pinches the spinal cord and nerves, known collectively as the cauda equina or horse’s tail. The result is low back pain as well as discomfort in the legs. Spinal stenosis is usually a slow process that occurs over years and is related to arthritis. The result is thickening of the ligaments, formation of bone spurs, and deterioration of the disc material. A large disc herniation may also result in spinal stenosis.
Signs and symptoms
(may include one or more):
- Mid-back to lower back pain going into legs
- Difficulty walking
- Stooped posture
- Numbness in the feet
- Weakness in the legs
- Decreased walking tolerance
- Falls
- Early muscle fatigue with exercise
- Heaviness of legs
- Bowel and bladder impairment
- Erectile dysfunction
Why it hurts:
As the spinal canal narrows, spinal stenosis pinches the cord and nerves, including nerves that control muscle power and sensation in the legs.
Non-surgical treatment options
- Posture exercises
- Pain medications
- Rest between activities
- Strengthening exercises
- Aerobic exercises
- Epidural spinal injections
- Acupuncture
- Chiropractic treatment