Neurogenic Claudication Treated in Houston, Cypress, Tomball & The Woodlands, TX

Neurogenic claudication is a spine condition that can produce chronic pain and heaviness in the legs, which can be traced to nerve compression in the lower back (lumbar spine). Another telltale sign is “shopping cart syndrome,” which occurs when the pain and other symptoms improve when the body is in a forward-leaning position; e.g., while pushing a shopping cart.

The most common cause of neurogenic claudication is spinal stenosis, which occurs when the spinal canal becomes narrowed by degenerative tissue, such as a bulging or herniated disc, inflamed facet joint, thickened ligament or bone spur, which creates pressure on a spinal nerve root. Often associated with the natural aging process, spinal degeneration of this type is very common.

The Importance of a Proper Diagnosis

If you’re experiencing symptoms of neurogenic claudication, your first step toward finding relief is seeking an accurate diagnosis. If you live in Houston, Cypress, Tomball, The Woodlands or a nearby Texas area, you can feel confident entrusting your spine care to R. Alexander Mohr, MD, at Advanced Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine.

A fellowship-trained, board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon, Dr. Mohr is widely known and highly regarded for both his surgical expertise and caring bedside manner. To determine whether neurogenic claudication is the source of your discomfort, Dr. Mohr will review your symptoms and evaluate your imaging scans. Once he confirms your diagnosis, he will explain your options, answer your questions and help you make fully informed treatment decisions.

How Is Neurogenic Claudication Treated?

Surgery is the most common treatment for neurogenic claudication. The goal is to alleviate the pressure on the compressed nerve root. For instance, if the source of the compression is a herniated disc, Dr. Mohr might suggest a microdiscectomy to remove a portion of the damaged disc, create more space in the spinal canal and allow the nerves to flow freely within it.

If you would like to discuss your symptoms and treatment options with Dr. Mohr, request a personal consultation today. He welcomes new patients from Houston, Cypress, Tomball, The Woodlands and other Texas communities.