MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia:Lumbar spinal surgery

Skip navigation

Medical Encyclopedia

Lumbar spinal surgery - series: Indications

Lumbar spinal surgery - seriesIllustrations:

Indications

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

Update Date: 5/12/2008

Updated by: Thomas N. Joseph, MD, Private Practice specializing in Orthopaedics, subspecialty Foot and Ankle, Camden Bone & Joint, Camden, SC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 1997-2008, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.