Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: Leg Pain When Walking
Lumbar spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal from age-related changes: bulging discs, thickened ligaments and enlarged facet joints. The hallmark symptom is neurogenic claudication — aching, heaviness, numbness or weakness in the legs that starts after walking a certain distance and eases within minutes of sitting or leaning forward on a shopping cart.
Stenosis is not dangerous in most cases, so treatment is about restoring function. When walking distance has shrunk enough to limit life and non-surgical measures no longer help, a minimally invasive laminectomy removes the tissue pressing on the nerves through a small incision, without a fusion in most cases.
Symptoms
- Leg pain, heaviness or cramping after walking or standing
- Relief with sitting, bending forward, or leaning on a cart
- Numbness or tingling in the legs
- Walking distance shortening over months to years
- Low back pain (variable)
How it is diagnosed
MRI of the lumbar spine. Standing X-rays check for slippage (spondylolisthesis) that would change the surgical plan.
Treatment options
Without surgery
Physical therapy focused on flexion and core strength, anti-inflammatories, epidural steroid injections, activity pacing.
Surgical options Dr. Daggubati offers
- Endoscopic or tubular laminectomy (decompression) without fusion
- MIS fusion when stenosis is combined with instability
Common questions
Do I need a fusion for stenosis?
Usually not. A decompression alone is enough when the spine is stable. Fusion is added only when there is slippage or instability that would worsen after decompression.
How soon will I walk better?
Many patients notice improved walking tolerance within days to weeks; numbness can take longer to settle.
Not sure this is you?
Bring your imaging and your story. A single visit usually clarifies what is going on and which options are realistic. Request an appointment or call (301) 718-9611.