What is Neurogenic Claudication?

Neurogenic claudication, often referred to as lumbar spinal stenosis, is a medical condition characterized by pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness, in the legs due to narrowing of the spinal canal or compression of the nerve roots within the spine. This condition can significantly impact one's mobility and quality of life.

Dr. Brandon A. Ortega, in Torrance and Long Beach, California, specializes in treating neurogenic claudication with advanced surgical techniques, restoring mobility and improving the quality of life for his patients. Call his practice, Brandon A. Ortega, MD, if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms suggestive of neurogenic claudication.

SYMPTOMS
The symptoms of neurogenic claudication typically manifest during activities that involve walking or standing for prolonged periods of time. Some common signs and symptoms include:

• Leg Pain: Patients often experience aching, cramping, or burning pain in one or both legs. This discomfort typically occurs in the lower back, buttocks, thighs, or calves and tends to worsen with walking or standing.
• Numbness or Weakness: Some individuals may also experience sensations of numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs, making it difficult to walk or maintain balance.
• Relief with Rest: Symptoms of neurogenic claudication often subside with rest or by changing positions, such as sitting or bending forward, which temporarily relieves the pressure on the affected nerves.

CAUSES
Neurogenic claudication is primarily caused by spinal stenosis, a condition characterized by the narrowing of the spinal canal. This narrowing can occur due to various factors, including:

• Degenerative Changes: The most common cause of spinal stenosis is age-related degeneration of the spine, such as osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease. These conditions can lead to the thickening of ligaments, formation of bone spurs, and bulging of spinal discs, all of which can contribute to narrowing of the spinal canal.
• Herniated Discs: Disc herniation, where the soft inner core of a spinal disc protrudes through its outer shell, can also cause compression of spinal nerves, leading to symptoms of neurogenic claudication.
• Congenital Abnormalities: In some cases, individuals may be born with a narrow spinal canal, predisposing them to develop symptoms of neurogenic claudication later in life.

TREATMENT
The treatment of neurogenic claudication aims to alleviate symptoms, improve mobility, and enhance overall quality of life. Depending on the severity of symptoms and underlying causes, treatment options may include:

• Conservative Management: Initially, conservative approaches such as rest, lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be recommended to alleviate pain and improve mobility. Physical therapy exercises can help strengthen the muscles supporting the spine and improve flexibility, while NSAIDs can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
• Epidural Steroid Injections: For individuals with persistent or severe symptoms, epidural steroid injections may be recommended to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. These injections deliver corticosteroids directly into the epidural space around the spinal nerves, providing temporary relief from symptoms.
• Surgical Intervention: In cases where conservative measures fail to provide adequate relief, or if there is evidence of neurological deficits or progressive symptoms, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgical options for neurogenic claudication include decompressive procedures such as laminectomy or spinal fusion (ALIF/LLIF/TLIF), aimed at relieving pressure on the compressed spinal nerves and stabilizing the spine.

Neurogenic claudication is a debilitating condition that can significantly impair mobility and quality of life. By understanding its symptoms, causes, and treatment options, individuals affected by neurogenic claudication can work with healthcare professionals to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to their needs. Whether through conservative management, interventional procedures, or surgical intervention, effective management of neurogenic claudication can help restore function and improve overall well-being.

For compassionate and expert care, book an appointment with Dr. Brandon A. Ortega, spine surgeon in Torrance and Long Beach, California, to see how we can help address your neurogenic claudication today.