Neurogenic Claudication
What is it?
Neurogenic claudication is the medical term used to describe the symptom of pain induced by walking, caused by damage to the spinal cord and nerves. It is almost always a symptom of lumbar stenosis, a condition in which the column of the spinal cord or the canals that protect the nerve roots narrows at the lower back. This narrowing can also occur in the spaces between the vertebrae where the nerves leave the spine to travel to other parts of the body.
Symptoms
The symptoms of 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. These symptoms are especially present when standing upright or walking and usually relieved by leaning forward or sitting down.
Diagnosis
A physical exam and interview will help a doctor determine the type of pain and its origin. Possible further tests can confirm a diagnosis of neurogenic claudication and help determine if the cause is spinal stenosis. These studies include X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computed tomography (CT) scan.
Treatment
Treatments will vary depending on the severity of the disorder, but can range from simple anti-inflammatory medications to surgery to help relieve the pressure. The goal of surgical treatment is to remove the pressure from the nerve roots in the lumbar spine. If the compression results from a herniated disc, a microdiscectomy may provide relief. In other cases, a laminectomy (removal of part of a bone) may be necessary.