Neurogenic claudicationoccurs when spinal nerves get compressed in the lumbar (lower) spine, causing intermittent leg pain.
They may be treated together.
Neurogenic Claudication Symptoms
Neurogenic claudication is characterized by nerve pain, typically in both legs.
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Standing, walking, descending stairs, or flexing the spine backward can cause pain.
Or, sitting, climbing stairs, or leaning forward tend to relieve pain.
Even sleep may become a challenge.
Causes
With neurogenic claudication, compressed spinal nerves are the underlying cause of leg pain.
Acquired LSS
LSS is generally acquired due to the degeneration of the lumbar spine.
As neurogenic claudication is generally the result of spinal deterioration, the symptoms are usually permanent.
Pain can be minimized with treatment, however.
Diagnosis
There is no gold standard for the diagnosis of neurogenic claudication.
The diagnosis is largely based on the person’s medical history, a physical exam, and medical imaging.
The physical exam and review are aimed at identifying where the pain is felt and when.
MRI is generally considered reliable in LSS diagnosis.
During a laminectomy, facets of the vertebra are either partially or completely removed.
Success rates for open and laparoscopic laminectomy are more or less the same.
Between 85% and 90% of people who undergo the surgery achieve long-lasting or even permanent pain relief.
Improved Walking With Claudication
Problems with walking are a hallmark sign of claudication due to LSS.
An improved walking distance is a key goal of treatment.
It is a characteristic feature of spinal stenosis, in which the passages inside the lumbar spine get narrow.
The pain typically gets worse with specific movements.
Back surgery is a last resort when all other options fail.
2022 Jan 19;12(1):e057724.
doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2021-057724
Columbia University Irving Medical Center.Neurogenic Claudication.
