Lumbar spinal stenosis is a condition often caused by age-related changes in the lumbar spine’s intervertebral discs, joints and ligaments (osteoarthritis) that can cause compression of the spinal nerves that travel to the legs. This compression can produce pain, weakness, or sensations of heaviness and numbness in the buttock and legs, which is called neurogenic claudication. These symptoms are typically worsened while standing and walking and relieved by sitting or stooping forward.
Lumbar spinal stenosis is highly prevalent and a rapidly growing health concern among older adults. Buttock and leg symptoms while walking can reduce the capacity and desire for individuals with Lumbar stenosis and neurogenic claudication to remain active. Reduced activity can produce significant declines in fitness, functional status, general health and well-being, quality of life, and independence.
SEMI’s Dr. Hofkirchner was part of a team that recently published a scientific paper that reviewed the best non-surgical options for symptoms of neurogenic claudication caused by degenerative Lumbar Spinal Stenosis. They found that the highest quality of evidence suggests that manual (hands-on) therapy and exercise provides better short-term improvement in symptoms and function compared to medical care or community-based group exercise, and education and supervised exercise is better for improving walking distance in the long term compared to self-directed home exercise.
Dr. Hofkirchner provides hands-on therapy and supervised exercises to help those with spinal stenosis manage their symptoms and improve their physical activity and quality of life. Book an appointment to see Dr. Hofkirchner for your back pain.
References:
Ammendolia C, Hofkirchner C, Plener J, Bussières A, Schneider M, Young J et al. Non-operative treatment for lumbar spinal stenosis with neurogenic claudication: an updated systematic review. 2022;12(1):e057724.
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