How can spine issues cause leg pain and discomfort?

Every day our legs endure a lot of stress, which may result in natural wear and tear problems over time and could lead to pain. Whenever we feel pain in our legs, obviously we think that it got injured or might be due to a muscle or joint problem. Unfortunately, certain spinal conditions can cause leg pain.

Various spinal conditions that affect your spinal structure and the nerves along the spinal cord can cause leg pain. So, if you ever suffer leg pain of unknown cause, it is suggested to consult an expert doctor. Diagnosing the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment. 

A number of spinal conditions can result in leg pain, and understanding their connection is essential for effective treatment. Below are some of the main spinal conditions that contribute to leg pain. 

Disc herniation

Herniated disc or disc herniation is a spinal condition where the gel-like material inside the disc pops out through its outermost layer and compresses adjacent nerves. This disc herniation can affect the sciatic nerve, which extends from the lower back to both legs. Excess pressure on this nerve can lead to lower back pain and leg pain. You may also experience other symptoms like tingling or numbness, and this condition is known as sciatica.  

Spinal stenosis

Spinal stenosis is a condition in which the spinal canal becomes narrow and puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. When the lower spine is narrowed, it is referred to as lumbar stenosis, and it can cause leg pain, especially while walking. Often, this condition leads to neurogenic claudication, which causes pain, tingling, or weakness in the legs.

Degenerative disc disease

With time, your spinal discs wear and tear due to overuse, a condition known as degenerative disc disease. Over time, they lose their cushioning ability, allowing the adjacent vertebrae to come closer and compress the surrounding nerves. This may result in nerve pain that sometimes radiates down to the legs.

Spondylolisthesis

It is a spinal condition that occurs when one of the vertebrae slips or tumbles out of alignment and presses the vertebra below it. This displacement can compress the surrounding nerves, which might lead to leg pain. In severe cases, people may experience various other neurological symptoms.

Lumbar radiculopathy

This is a condition that arises when the spinal nerve roots in the lumbar area are compressed or irritated. People with this condition might experience shooting pain, tingling, or numbness, which may travel down to the legs. Spinal problems such as disc herniation and spinal stenosis often lead to lumbar radiculopathy.

Sciatica

Sciatica is a condition caused when the sciatic nerve is compressed or irritated. This nerve branches down to both legs from the lower back. When this sciatic nerve is affected, people may experience lower back pain and leg pain. Various spinal conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, etc. can affect the sciatic nerve. 

Facet joint syndrome

Facet joints are referred to as the connections between the vertebrae of the spine. They play a major role in bending your spine and also prevent twisting too much. The majority of the nerve roots for many body parts, including the legs, pass through these joints. Over time, these facet joints degenerate and lead to facet joint syndrome. This condition can cause lower back pain that radiates down into the legs, which is often aggravated by certain movements or positions.

Symptoms that indicate the source of your leg pain is due to spine problem

The intensity and nature of pain can vary largely, no matter which part of the body is affected. It appears as a dull or sharp pain, and it may be constant or inconsistent. If you understand the type of leg pain you experience, you may be able to find the cause of the pain. 

Your leg pain might be due to a spine problem if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Dull or sharp pain that originates in the back and radiates down into the legs
• Muscle weakness (in legs)
• A numb feeling along your leg
• Tingling or burning sensation along your leg
• Pain that affects only one leg
• An electric shock-like feeling
• You may find it hard to walk

If you have been suffering from leg pain for a long time and experiencing any of these symptoms, then it is time to consult a spine specialist for further evaluation.

For spinal problems like back pain, consult Dr. Surya Prakash, one of the best spine doctors in Hyderabad. He has more than 20 years of experience as a spine surgeon and is highly successful in treating various spinal problems. Call +91 9848024699 to book your appointment with the doctor.