Neurogenic Leg & Foot Pain

Pain in the feet and legs, often brought on by certain postures or positions, is called neurogenic. The term neurogenic refers to pain that originates in the nervous system or that is related to functions of the nervous system. Neurogenic foot and leg pain can be as simple as numbness and tingling sensations, or a more serious condition resulting in surgery.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of neurogenic foot and leg pain can begin with numbness and tingling in the lower extremities and can result in weakness of one or both legs. The pain will usually radiate down the leg and into the foot. This can lead to gait problems, characterized by a slapping foot during ambulation. This condition is called "foot drop" and can lead to a loss of balance. In extreme cases, bowel and bladder function can be impaired, and the weakness in the legs becomes severe. This severe condition is known as cauda equina, a form of lumbar spinal stenosis, and requires surgery.

Causes

• Neurogenic foot and leg pain is often caused by degenerative changes that occur with aging. Some other causes can be tumors, which press on the spinal cord and nerves. Tumors can occur anywhere in the spinal column and are usually from cancers that have spread from other areas in the body.

  Injuries from automobile accidents can also cause neurogenic pain. Trauma from these types of accidents can move the spine out of alignment, causing pressure to the spinal cord.

  Heredity can also play a role in neurogenic foot and leg pain. Individuals born with a small spinal canal will have symptoms in their younger years as well as with age.

Diagnosis

• Several forms of medical imaging can be used to diagnose more severe cases of neurogenic foot and leg pain, such as foot drop and spinal stenosis. These can include X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), myelograms, bone scans and computerized axial tomography (CT scans).

Non-surgical treatment

• Non-surgical treatments for neurogenic foot and leg pain can include a variety of things from medication to exercise. NSAIDS, which reduce pain and inflammation, and analgesics such as Tylenol are often prescribed. Supplements such as chondroitin and glucosamine are also recommended. To build back strength in the spinal muscles, some physicians will also recommend physical therapy or exercises such as biking and walking. Back support belts may also help.

Surgical treatment

• In severe cases of neurogenic foot and leg pain, such as spinal stenosis, the most common surgery performed is the decompressive lumbar laminectomy. During this surgical procedure, the lamina and spinous process of the vertebra are removed and other bone areas are trimmed down. Risks associated with this surgery include infection and damage to the nerves. It is important to consider all options when dealing with this condition.