Narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back that causes leg pain and weakness on walking. Understand the diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment options.
Lumbar stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back. As the canal tightens, it squeezes the nerve roots that supply the legs, causing characteristic cramp-like pain, heaviness, and weakness on walking — a pattern called neurogenic claudication. Unlike arterial claudication, sitting down or bending forward quickly relieves the discomfort because it opens up the canal.
Lumbar stenosis tends to be slowly progressive. Many people manage their symptoms for years with activity modification and intermittent treatment. It rarely causes sudden deterioration, but a meaningful reduction in walking distance or growing neurological deficit are signals that surgical decompression should be considered.
Mr. Rath typically favours endoscopic decompression, preserving the posterior stabilising structures and allowing a faster, more comfortable recovery than traditional open surgery.
Yes — many patients improve with physiotherapy, targeted injections, and activity modification. Surgery is considered when walking tolerance is significantly reduced or conservative measures have plateaued.
Most patients are mobilising the same day and return to light activity within two weeks. Full recovery depends on the extent of the stenosis and individual health.
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