Lumbar Neurogenic Claudication

Lumbar neurogenic claudication, sometimes known as "lumbar pseudoclaudication", is caused by compression of the spinal nerves in the lumbar (lower) spine. This compression is usually caused by spinal stenosis, the narrowing of the spinal canal, in the lower back. Stenosis can compress the nerve roots that control sensation and movement in the lower body. This narrowing generally occurs due to wear and tear of the lower spine and as arthritic changes such as:

• Bulging discs
• Thickening of ligaments
• Growth of bone spurs

Symptoms of Lumbar Neurogenic Claudication

The symptoms of lumbar neurogenic claudication can include pain, tingling, or cramping in the lower back and one or both legs, hips, and buttocks. Weakness or heaviness in the legs may also occur. These symptoms are especially present when standing upright or walking and usually relieved with leaning forward or sitting down.

The pain may be worse when standing and walking because in a fully upright posture, the spinal canal naturally narrows which places additional pressure on the nerve roots. The pain may be temporarily relieved by sitting down or flexing forward since, in these postures, the spinal canal naturally expands a bit, relieving the excess pressure on the nerve roots.

Symptoms may include:

• Pain
• Tingling
• Cramping
• Weakness or heaviness in the legs
• Shopping cart syndrome (leaning on the shopping cart to feel relief)