Leg Pain (Lumbar Disc Herniation - Spinal Stenosis - Facet Cyst) at DRHC Dubai

Leg pain can be a debilitating condition that affects daily activities and quality of life. At DRHC Dubai, we specialize in diagnosing and treating various causes of leg pain, including lumbar disc herniation, spinal stenosis, and facet cysts. Understanding the underlying cause of your leg pain is crucial for effective treatment and relief.

Causes of Leg Pain

1. Lumbar Disc Herniation: A lumbar disc herniation occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc protrudes through its outer layer, often compressing nearby nerves. This condition is a common cause of leg pain, also known as sciatica, and is frequently seen in the lower back (lumbar region).
2. Spinal Stenosis: Spinal stenosis involves the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This narrowing can be due to degenerative changes, thickened ligaments, or herniated discs. Spinal stenosis is most commonly seen in the lumbar spine and can lead to leg pain, numbness, and weakness.
3. Facet Cysts: Facet cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop near the facet joints of the spine. These cysts can compress spinal nerves, causing pain that radiates into the legs. Facet cysts often occur in conjunction with degenerative changes in the spine, such as osteoarthritis.

Symptoms Associated with Each Condition

Lumbar Disc Herniation

• Radicular Pain: Sharp, shooting pain that radiates from the lower back down to the legs and feet.
• Numbness or Tingling: Often felt in the areas affected by the compressed nerve.
• Muscle Weakness: In severe cases, the affected leg may feel weak, making it difficult to stand or walk.

Spinal Stenosis

• Leg Pain: Often described as a cramping or aching sensation, especially when standing or walking for extended periods.
• Neurogenic Claudication: Pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs that worsens with walking and improves with rest.
• Balance Issues: Difficulty with coordination and balance, particularly in more severe cases.

Facet Cysts

• Localized Back Pain: Pain in the area of the spine where the cyst is located.
• Radiating Pain: Pain that spreads to the buttocks and down the legs, similar to sciatica.
• Muscle Weakness or Numbness: Resulting from nerve compression by the cyst.

Diagnosis at DRHC Dubai

Accurate diagnosis is key to effective treatment. At DRHC Dubai, we use a combination of advanced diagnostic techniques, including:

• Clinical Evaluation: A thorough physical examination and review of your medical history.
• Imaging Studies: MRI and CT scans provide detailed images of the spine, helping to identify the presence of herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or facet cysts.
• Electromyography (EMG): Tests the electrical activity of muscles and nerves, assessing the extent of nerve damage or compression.

Treatment Options

Non-Surgical Treatments

1. Physical Therapy: Tailored exercise programs to strengthen the spine, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.
2. Medications: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and muscle relaxants can help manage symptoms.
3. Injections: Epidural steroid injections or nerve blocks can provide temporary relief from inflammation and pain.

Minimally Invasive Procedures: 

1. Microdiscectomy: Removal of herniated disc material to relieve nerve compression.
2. Laminectomy: Removal of part of the vertebra to enlarge the spinal canal and relieve pressure on the nerves.
3. Cyst Aspiration or Removal: Draining or surgically removing facet cysts to alleviate nerve compression.

Surgical Options:

1. Spinal Fusion: Stabilizing the spine by fusing two or more vertebrae, often performed in cases of severe spinal stenosis or instability.
2. Decompression Surgery: Removing structures that are compressing the spinal cord or nerves.

Rehabilitation and Recovery

Post-treatment rehabilitation is an essential part of recovery. Our multidisciplinary team at DRHC Dubai offers comprehensive rehabilitation services, including physical therapy and pain management. Our goal is to help you regain mobility, reduce pain, and return to your daily activities as soon as possible.