Lumbar spinal surgery - series

Lumbar (lower back) spine disease is usually caused by herniated intervertebral discs, abnormal growth of bony processes on the vertebral bodies (osteophytes), which compress spinal nerves, trauma, and narrowing (stenosis) of the spinal column around the spinal cord.

Symptoms of lumbar spine problems include:

• pain that extends (radiates) from the back to the buttocks or back of thigh
• pain that interferes with daily activities
• weakness of legs or feet
• numbness of legs, feet, or toes
• loss of bowel of bladder control

Review Date: 05/31/2006
Reviewed By: Kevin B. Freedman, MD, MSCE, Sports Medicine, Orthopaedic Specialists, Bryn Mawr, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.