Neurogenic claudication is a condition that can cause pain, cramping or weakness when you stand or walk. The pain can extend into the lower back, legs and feet.
There are two types of claudication: neurogenic claudication and vascular claudication. Vascular claudication results from circulation problems that disrupt normal blood flow. Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is most often the cause.
Neurogenic claudication, on the other hand, starts in the spine and nervous system. It occurs when the space around the lower spine narrows. This puts pressure on the spinal cord and/or nerve roots. Leaning or sitting forward, which takes pressure off the spine, can offer temporary relief.
Compression of the spinal cord can lead to claudication symptoms. It can also put pressure on blood vessels around the spine, limiting blood flow and causing claudication symptoms.
If you are in Central Kentucky and having symptoms that could be related to neurogenic claudication, we offer comprehensive diagnostic and treatment options through the UK HealthCare Comprehensive Spine Center. Our team of spine specialists can help determine the best treatment plan for finding pain relief.
The primary symptom of claudication is muscle pain that occurs when you are physically active. This pain goes away when you are at rest. You might experience this discomfort in different ways, including cramping, a dull ache or a shooting pain.
Other symptoms of this condition can include:
- Burning
- Heaviness in the legs
- Leg fatigue or weakness
- Numbness or tingling
Severe neurogenic claudication can reduce your quality of life by causing difficulties with mobility as well as your ability to regulate your bowel and bladder.
Neurogenic claudication is caused by compressed spinal nerves. This compression is most often the result of central spinal stenosis affecting the lumbar spine. This puts pressure on the nerve roots.
Other causes can include:
- A bulging or herniated disk
- Narrowing of the spinal canal over time due to conditions like osteoarthritis in the facet joints of the spine
- Overgrowth of the ligaments surrounding the spinal canal
- Trauma that affects the spinal cord or vertebrae
Some patients are born with narrow spinal canals. This makes them particularly at risk for developing spinal stenosis and/or neurogenic claudication.
Your journey to better spine health begins at home. Before you visit UK HealthCare for spine pain, we review your medical records. We may contact you with follow-up questions. We then discuss your case as a team. Based on these conversations, we determine which specialists will best meet your needs.
Next, we schedule your appointment. To provide you with the best care possible, you may need to meet with multiple providers. This helps us meet all your care needs in a timely manner.
During your first visit, we answer questions and provide information to help you better understand your condition. We also work to find out what is causing your symptoms and develop a treatment plan.
In most cases, we start with non-surgical treatment, such as lifestyle changes and physical therapy. Spine issues that don’t improve with this approach may require other treatment, including pain management and surgical intervention.
When coming to your first appointment, plan to do the following:
- Arrive early. You may need to fill out paperwork when you arrive. Getting to your appointment early gives you time to complete paperwork without feeling rushed.
- Bring a current list of medicines or supplements you take. You should also list any surgeries you’ve had, symptoms you’ve experienced and other past health issues.
- Dress comfortably. Working toward a diagnosis takes time. Comfortable clothes help you stay relaxed and attentive throughout your visit. They also make it easier to perform your physical exam.
- Eat and drink as directed. You may need to have imaging or other tests during your first visit. If you need to adjust your eating, drinking or medicines before a test, a team member will call to explain what you need to do leading up to your visit.
- Have your insurance information on hand. UK HealthCare accepts most insurers, and financial assistance is available.
- Bring a family member or friend with you. This person can help take notes and ask questions you may not think of asking.
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