Current concepts and recent advances in understanding and managing lumbar spine stenosis.

Carlos Bagley, Matthew Macallister, Luke Dosselman, Jessica Moreno, Salah Aoun, Tarek El Ahmadieh

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

40 Scopus citations

Abstract

Lumbar spinal stenosis is a degenerative process that is extremely frequent in today’s aging population. It can result in impingement on the nerves of the cauda equina or on the thecal sac itself, and lead to debilitating symptoms such as severe leg pain, or restriction in the perimeter of ambulation, both resulting in dependency in daily activities. The impact of the disease is global and includes financial repercussions because of its involvement in the active work force group. Risk factors for the disease include some comorbidities such as obesity or smoking, daily habits such as an active lifestyle, but also genetic factors that are not completely elucidated yet. The diagnosis of lumbar stenosis can be difficult, and involves a combination of radiological and clinical findings. Treatment ranges from conservative measures with physical therapy and core strengthening, to steroid injections in the facet joints or epidural space, to a more radical solution with surgical decompression. The evidence available in the literature regarding the causes, diagnosis and treatment of lumbar spine stenosis can be confusing, as no level I recommendations can be provided yet based on current data. The aim of this manuscript is to provide a comprehensive and updated summary to the reader addressing the multiple aspects of this disease.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number137
JournalF1000Research
Volume8
DOIs
StatePublished - 2019

Keywords

  • Lumbar radiculopathy
  • Lumbar stenosis
  • Neurogenic claudication

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Immunology and Microbiology
  • General Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutics
  • General Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

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