Lumbar Disc Degeneration

Lumbar disc degeneration is a common condition in which the intervertebral discs in the lower back lose their normal structure and function. This can cause pain and discomfort, and in some cases, may lead to other related conditions such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis.

The intervertebral discs are cushioning pads located between the vertebral bones of the spine. They act as shock absorbers and allow for the smooth, flexible movement of the spine. Over time, the discs can degenerate due to aging, injury, or other factors, causing them to lose their ability to absorb shock and support the spine.

Symptoms of lumbar disc degeneration can include:

• Low back pain
• Stiffness and limited mobility in the lower back
• Shooting or sharp pain in the legs or feet
• Numbness or tingling in the legs or feet

Treatment for lumbar disc degeneration depends on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause of the disc degeneration. In many cases, self-care measures, such as over-the-counter pain relievers, heat or cold therapy, and gentle stretching and exercise, can be effective in managing pain.

Initially a healthcare provider may recommend physical therapy, chiropractic care, or prescription medications to manage pain. 

In more severe cases, interventional procedures such as epidural injections or surgery may be necessary to manage pain. Interventional pain specialists can help target the specific component sources of pain and offer a graded treatment approach to develop a customized plan specific for each patient.

A variety of minimally invasive interventional procedures are now available to significantly reduce pain and help restore functioning.

It is important to seek medical attention if lumbar disc degeneration is accompanied by significant leg weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or other symptoms that suggest a more serious underlying condition.

To help prevent lumbar disc degeneration, it is important to maintain good posture, engage in regular exercise, and avoid repetitive motions that put stress on the lower back, such as heavy lifting or long periods of sitting. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in good posture when sitting can help to reduce stress on the lower back and minimize the risk of developing lumbar disc degeneration.           

Spinal Stenosis

Lumbar spinal stenosis and neurogenic claudication are related conditions that occur when the spinal canal in the lower back becomes narrowed, compressing the nerves and spinal cord. Lumbar spinal stenosis is the term used to describe the narrowing of the spinal canal, while neurogenic claudication refers to the symptoms that result from the compression of the nerves and spinal cord.

The spinal canal is the pathway through which the spinal cord and nerves run. Over time, the canal may become narrowed due to factors such as aging, injury, or the development of spinal conditions such as osteoarthritis or herniated discs.

Symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis and neurogenic claudication can include:

• Low back pain
• Shooting or sharp pain in the legs or feet
• Numbness or tingling in the legs or feet
• Weakness in the legs
• Cramping or fatigue in the legs, especially when walking or standing for long periods

In some cases, neurogenic claudication can cause a person to experience symptoms when walking or standing for long periods, but to feel relief when sitting or bending forward. This is known as positional neurogenic claudication.

Treatment for lumbar spinal stenosis and neurogenic claudication depends on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause of the stenosis.

Interventional procedures such as epidural injections or surgery may be necessary to manage pain.

Minimally Invasive Interventional Pain Procedures are now able to provide long term relief and significant improvement in functioning without surgery. 

• Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression (MILD) Procedure: A percutaneous spinal decompression procedure which targets the thickened posterior ligament to reduce spinal nerve compression.
• Vertiflex Interspinous spacer: An implant placed between the spinous processes which limits hyperextension of the spine and prevents nerve compression related to spinal stenosis.

It is important to seek medical attention if lumbar spinal stenosis and neurogenic claudication is accompanied by significant leg weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or other symptoms that suggest a more serious underlying condition.