Lumbar Conditions

Lumbar Spine Conditions

The lumbar spine, located in the lower back, plays a crucial role in supporting the weight of the upper body, allowing flexibility and movement while protecting the spinal cord and nerves.

Conditions like lumbar radiculopathy and lumbar stenosis can cause significant pain and discomfort, impacting your daily life. At CHRISTUS Health, our expert team of spine specialists provides comprehensive care for lumbar conditions, helping you regain mobility and improve your quality of life.

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What is Lumbar Radiculopathy?

Lumbar radiculopathy, commonly referred to as sciatica, occurs when a nerve in the lower spine becomes pinched or compressed. This condition can cause pain that radiates from the lower back down the leg and can often be associated with numbness or tingling.

Causes of Lumbar Radiculopathy:

Herniated Disc: The most common cause, where the soft inner material of a spinal disc pushes out and presses against the nerves.
Degenerative Disc Disease: As we age, the discs in the spine can wear down, leading to nerve compression.
Bone Spurs: Overgrowth of bone due to arthritis can pinch the nerves.
Spinal Stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses the nerves.

Symptoms of Lumbar Radiculopathy

Sharp or burning pain in the lower back, buttock, and leg.
Weakness or numbness in the leg or foot.
Tingling or a “pins and needles” sensation.
Pain that worsens with sitting, standing, or bending.

Treatment for Lumbar Radiculopathy:

Non-Surgical: Most cases improve with conservative treatments such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and steroid injections to reduce swelling and pain.
Surgical: For severe cases that don’t respond to non-surgical treatments, surgery may be required to remove the pressure on the nerve.

What is Lumbar Stenosis?

Lumbar stenosis is a condition where the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the nerves that travel through the lower back. This narrowing is often caused by age-related changes in the spine, leading to pain and difficulty with movement.

Causes of Lumbar Stenosis:

Aging: The most common cause is wear and tear over time, leading to arthritis or disc degeneration.
Spinal Injuries: Trauma to the spine can lead to narrowing of the spinal canal.
Bone Spurs: The development of bone spurs can press against the nerves and spinal cord.
Thickened Ligaments: Ligaments that hold the bones of the spine together can thicken and encroach on the spinal canal.

Symptoms of Lumbar Stenosis

Pain or cramping in the legs, especially when walking or standing for long periods.
Numbness or weakness in the legs or feet.
Difficulty maintaining balance.
Relief of pain when sitting or leaning forward, such as on a shopping cart.

Treatment for Lumbar Stenosis

Non-Surgical: Physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and pain relief medications may help manage symptoms. Steroid injections may also be used to reduce inflammation and swelling.
Surgical: In cases where conservative treatments are ineffective, surgery to decompress the nerves, such as laminectomy, may be necessary to create more space in the spinal canal.

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