How Can Spinal Decompression Relieve Neurogenic Claudication and Improve Leg Strength?

Neurogenic claudication is a common and often debilitating symptom of lumbar spinal stenosis. It typically presents as leg pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that worsens with walking or standing and improves with sitting or leaning forward. This condition results from compression of the spinal nerves in the lower back.  That pressure that can be relieved through a procedure known as a minimally invasive lumbar laminectomy.
 

Understanding Neurogenic Claudication

Neurogenic claudication is caused by narrowing of the spinal canal that happens as the consequence of time and gravity.  Narrowing (stenosis) is frequently due to age-related changes in the spine, such as disc degeneration, thickening of ligaments, or overgrowth of bone. When the nerves are compressed, the normal transmission of signals is disrupted, leading to pain and muscle weakness.
 

What Is Minimally Invasive Spinal Decompression?

A minimally invasive lumbar laminectomy is a surgical approach designed to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves. Dr. Luis M. Tumialán utilizes minimally invasive instruments and techniques to access the compressed nerves with less disruption to surrounding muscles and tissues. During the procedure, a portion of the lamina is carefully removed to access the canal and create more room for the nerves.  Unlike traditional midline lumbar laminectomies, Dr. Tumialán preserves the majority of the boney structures and removes only the part needed to access the central canal to decompress the nerves.
 

The minimally invasive nature of this approach offers several advantages, including reduced blood loss, a smaller incision, shorter hospital stays, and a quicker recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
 

How Decompression Improves Leg Strength

By relieving the pressure on spinal nerves, decompression surgery directly addresses the root cause of neurogenic claudication. Once the nerves are no longer compressed, their function typically improves. This can lead to:
 

• Reduction or elimination of leg pain
• Improved mobility and endurance
• Restoration of strength in the lower extremities
• A more active and independent lifestyle

Many patients report significant improvement in walking ability and decreased reliance on assistive devices after recovery.
 

Is Spinal Decompression Right for You?

If conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or epidural injections have not provided lasting relief from neurogenic claudication, minimally invasive spinal decompression may be an effective option. A detailed evaluation with advanced imaging is essential to determine the extent of spinal nerve compression and whether you are a candidate for surgery.
 

Take the Next Step Toward Pain Relief

Neurogenic claudication can severely limit your quality of life, but modern surgical techniques such as minimally invasive spinal decompression offer real hope for lasting relief. By removing the tissue compressing your spinal nerves, this procedure can improve leg strength, reduce pain, and restore mobility - without the extensive recovery of traditional open surgery.
 

If you’re dealing with neurogenic claudication, schedule a consultation with Luis M. Tumialán, MD, to learn if spinal decompression is right for you. Visit our office Scottsdale, Arizona, or call (480) 771-0700 to book an appointment today.