If you’re struggling with constant leg pain, numbness, or weakness, the problem might not start in your legs at all. In many cases, these symptoms are caused by compression of the spinal nerves in the lower back. A procedure called lumbar decompression and fusion can help relieve this pressure and resolve leg symptoms — sometimes even more effectively than it addresses low back pain!
Dr. Todd J. Albert, an experienced orthopedic spine surgeon in New York City, offers advanced solutions for patients with nerve-related leg pain caused by lumbar spine conditions.
Why Leg Pain Often Begins in the Spine
The lumbar spine contains nerve roots that travel through narrow passageways before extending into the hips, buttocks, and legs. When these nerve roots become pinched (due to herniated discs, bone spurs, degenerative disc disease, or spinal stenosis), you might notice pain that radiates down the legs, sometimes called sciatica. Other common symptoms include numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness in the legs or feet.
For many, this leg pain is more intense than any discomfort felt in the back itself. That’s why lumbar decompression and fusion is often recommended for people whose primary complaint is related to leg pain.
How Lumbar Decompression and Fusion Works
During lumbar decompression surgery, Dr. Albert removes the source of nerve compression. This may involve trimming bone spurs, removing part of a herniated disc, or enlarging narrowed spinal openings. If spinal instability is also present, fusion is performed to stabilize the affected vertebrae using surgical hardware and bone grafts.
By decompressing the nerves and restoring spinal stability, the procedure directly addresses the root cause of leg pain, offering significant relief for most people.
Why Leg Symptoms Improve Faster Than Back Pain
Leg symptoms often improve more quickly than back pain after lumbar decompression and fusion because nerve roots are no longer being irritated. It can take weeks or months for residual back pain to resolve, depending on the severity of degeneration and the level of muscle conditioning. However, many people notice a dramatic improvement in leg function soon after surgery.
Learn Whether You’re a Candidate
If leg pain is interfering with your ability to walk, work, or enjoy daily activities, a surgical consultation could provide the answers you need. Dr. Albert has received awards from The Association of Bones and Joint Surgeons and NY Top Docs. Contact his office in NYC at 212-606-1004 to schedule your personalized evaluation and explore options for long-lasting relief.
