Back and Leg Pain Explained: Treating Spinal Stenosis, Sciatica, and Facet Joint Pain

If your back and legs hurt regularly, you aren’t alone. Research shows that about two-thirds of people with lower back pain also experience radiating leg pain. 

When these symptoms occur occasionally, they can often be managed with at-home care, such as rest and over-the-counter pain medication. However, if they persist for weeks or longer, it’s important to identify the cause so you can take steps to feel better. 

At Palm Beach Pain Institute in Delray Beach, Florida, board-certified pain management physician Marcie Merson, MD, regularly treats back and leg pain that occurs at the same time. 

This blog covers some of the most common conditions that cause these symptoms, explains the differences, and explores potential treatments. 

Understanding causes of back and leg pain

Co-occurring back and leg pain happen for various reasons, but some of the most common include:

Spinal stenosis

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal due to age-related wear and tear. As this narrowing progresses, it can place pressure on your spinal nerves, resulting in pain and mobility issues.

Sciatica

Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back, across the buttocks, and into the legs, gets irritated or compressed by surrounding tissues. Sciatica is one of the most common causes of back and leg pain. Studies show that 40% of people will experience sciatica at some point in their lives. 

Facet syndrome

Facet syndrome can also contribute to back and leg discomfort. The facet joints are located at the back of your spine and link your vertebrae together. Because they experience daily wear and tear from movements such as bending, twisting, and lifting, they can become stiff, causing pain, which affects their range of motion.

Symptoms to watch out for

Back and leg pain often present similarly, but subtle distinctions can help you determine the most likely cause. Here are some symptoms to watch for: 

Signs of spinal stenosis

Spinal stenosis doesn’t always cause symptoms, but when it does, people often report leg weakness and numbness that makes it difficult to walk, stand for extended periods, or climb stairs. You may also notice that these symptoms improve when you sit or bend over. 

Signs of sciatica

Sciatica is often described as a sharp, shooting pain that initiates in the lower back or buttocks and extends to the legs or feet. These symptoms typically occur on only one side of the body and often improve when you stand or walk. 

Signs of facet joint syndrome

Facet joint syndrome often causes pain in the neck or lower back, continuing to the buttocks. Many people describe the pain as dull or aching and typically worsens during certain activities, such as bending, twisting, or standing for extended periods.

Treatment options for back and leg pain that occur together

Regardless of what’s causing your back and leg pain, various treatment options can help you feel better. 

After reviewing your medical history, completing a physical exam, and conducting diagnostic imaging or other tests, we can provide personalized treatment recommendations. Depending on your needs, we may suggest:

• Physical therapy, including targeted stretches and strengthening exercises
• Medication management to help manage inflammation and pain
• Epidural steroid injections or nerve blocks
• Radiofrequency ablation
• Posture coaching
• Ergonomic equipment to improve your home or office environment

If your pain persists despite these approaches, we may recommend an operation, such as decompression surgery, to take pressure off a nerve, but only after all other treatments have been exhausted.

Many people benefit from combined treatments. It often takes some trial and error, so be patient and follow your doctor’s instructions, and attend each of your scheduled checkups. 

We can assist with managing your back and leg pain

Don’t let back and leg pain keep you from activities you love. If you’re tired of trying to manage it on your own, we can help. Schedule an appointment today to get started by booking online or calling our office at 561-499-7020.