Neurogenic Claudication

Neurogenic claudication is a set of symptoms caused by the pinching of the nerves in the lumbar spine. Typical symptoms include:

• Pain and numbness in the legs with standing or walking, sometimes progressing to weakness in the legs
• Back pain
• Pain or numbness that worsens with standing or walking
• Improvement in pain when sitting down to rest or leaning on something when walking, such as a shopping cart
   

Treatment of neurogenic claudication usually starts with physical therapy because strengthening the back can significantly improve symptoms.

If symptoms continue, it may be necessary to get an MRI to look for compression of the nerves in the lumbar spine. Surgery, such as a lumbar laminectomy, can remove the pressure on the nerves and improve symptoms of neurogenic claudication.