Back Problems

Neurosurgeons treat a large number of problems with the lumbar spine (lower back). The more common ones include prolapsed intervertebral disc (slipped disc), spinal canal stenosis, and spinal tumours.

Prolapsed Intervertebral Disc (Slipped Disc)

As we get older the discs wear out, and they can then bulge backwards and press on a spinal nerve root. This can cause severe pain in the leg (sciatica) and back, as well as weakness and sensory loss. Occasionally problems with the bladder and bowel may occur. The disc can be shown on magnetic imaging (MRI) and, if the symptoms are severe, can be removed by a microdiscectomy (a minimally invasive operation).

Spinal Stenosis

This condition is a progressive narrowing of the bony canal in the lumbar spine where the spinal nerves lie. It is due to the gradual wearing out of the bones and ligaments as we get older. It can restrict the blood supply to the spinal nerves causing pain in the legs, as well as weakness and sensory changes, particularly after walking. The stenosis shows up on magnetic imaging (MRI) and can often be treated by an operation: lumbar laminectomy.

Lumbar Spinal Tumours

A variety of growths and tumours can occur in the lumbar spine, although they are fortunately not common. They can cause low back and leg pain as well as leg weakness and sensory changes. Problems with the bladder and bowels can also occur. They are usually imaged with a magnetic resonance scan (MRI). Some may need to be removed surgically via a laminectomy.

Associated Terms

Low back pain, sciatica, leg pain, lumbago, slipped disc, disc prolapse.