Leg pain may not be what it seems. Experts reveal that spinal problems, such as herniated disks and spinal stenosis, are common but poorly understood causes of this discomfort.
Leg pain is a common complaint, but determining its cause isn’t always easy. Although many people attribute it to physical exertion or poor posture, specialists warn that, in some cases, the cause could lie in the spine.
“One of the most misunderstood sources of chronic pain I see is leg pain related to back problems,” explains Dr. Jonathan Paek, a pain management expert at Houston Methodist Hospital.
This type of pain, which can manifest in the hip, knee, or leg, often surprises patients when they discover that its origin is in the lumbar spine.
Herniated disc and spinal stenosis: the main culprits
Two of the most common causes of back-related leg pain are:
- Herniated disc
Intervertebral discs act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae. A hernia occurs when the jellylike center of a disc shifts or bulges, irritating nearby nerves.
“When a disk impinges on a nerve that travels to the leg, we call it radiculopathy,” explains Dr. Paek. This pain is usually caused by inflammation caused by nerve irritation.
- Spinal stenosis
Spinal stenosis, characterized by narrowing of the spaces in the spine, is another common cause. This condition compresses the nerves, causing pain that can vary depending on body position.
“The pain usually worsens when standing and improves when leaning forward,” notes Dr. Paek, who describes this phenomenon as the “shopping cart sign.”
Identifying a back problem
Determining whether leg pain originates in the spine can be challenging. Some signs include:
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