Lumbar spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spaces in the lower back that can irritate or compress nerves, often causing leg symptoms that are worse with standing or walking. Many people describe heaviness, aching, or pain that travels into the buttocks or legs (sometimes called sciatica), and they may feel better when sitting or leaning forward.
Common symptoms people notice
- Leg pain, burning, heaviness or cramping with walking or prolonged standing.
- Back pain and buttock/leg symptoms (numbness, tingling) that can fluctuate day to day.
- Leg weakness; in more severe cases, bladder/bowel changes require urgent medical review.
What causes lumbar stenosis?
It’s often related to age-associated “wear and tear” changes in the spine that can reduce space for the nerves. An assessment is important because other conditions can also mimic leg pain with walking.
How it’s usually diagnosed
Diagnosis typically combines your history (what triggers symptoms, what relieves them), a neurological exam, and imaging such as MRI or CT when needed.
Treatment options (usually stepwise)
- Non-surgical care may include activity modification, physiotherapy, and pain-relieving or anti-inflammatory medicines where appropriate.
- Some people may be offered injections as part of a broader plan to settle inflammation and improve function.
- Surgery may be considered if symptoms are persistent and significantly limiting (for example, walking becomes very difficult), or if there are concerning neurological findings; procedures can include decompression (such as laminectomy) with or without fusion depending on stability and anatomy.
Why see Dr Simon Clark?
Dr Clark is a Neurosurgeon and Complex Spinal Surgeon with UK and Australia training, including a spinal fellowship year in Adelaide (Royal Adelaide Hospital, 2011) and leadership roles in the UK (Clinical Lead for Spinal Surgery at The Walton Centre). He has a broad adult spinal practice and an interest in enabling technologies such as neuronavigation and robotics where appropriate.
Next step
If your leg symptoms are limiting your walking or quality of life, you can request an appointment or referral. Dr Clark accepts direct patient enquiries and GP/specialist referrals via online form, email, or Healthlink.