Dr. Stefano Sinicropi, M.D.

If you’re finding that walking has become a little more difficult, or you’ve noticed that you’ve developed a limp or a hitch in your step, it stands to reason that you’d assume there is an issue in your lower body. Perhaps you’re dealing with an issue like plantar fasciitis or knee tendonitis, but gait problems aren’t always the result of a problem at or below the knee. Because of the interconnectedness of different body systems, it’s entirely reasonable that the real issue resides within your spine.

But what types of spinal issues could be causing walking problems, and how can a spine specialist help treat your back issue to restore optimal gait? In today’s blog, we explore five spine problems that can lead to walking difficulties.

Back Problems That Cause Gait Issues

If you’re dealing with a gait issue, it’s a smart idea to connect with a physician or your primary care doctor to get to the bottom of it. Your gait issue could be caused by a range of different underlying problems, and the only way to effectively treat the condition is by knowing what you’re up against.

As a spine specialist, here are some of the back and neck issues that we see that could be playing a role in your gait abnormalities:

1. Spinal Stenosis – Spinal stenosis is a condition where the space through which key spinal nerves in your spinal column pass shrinks. When there is less room for nerves to pass unimpeded, nerves can become irritated or damaged. These nerves traverse throughout your extremities, meaning it’s common for symptoms of spinal stenosis to present in your arms or legs.
2. Herniated Disc – A herniated disc in your neck or spine can also affect your gait. Similar to spinal stenosis, a herniated disc occurs when a spinal disc shifts out of its natural position, oftentimes affecting the nerves in close proximity. Again, if these nerves are responsible for controlling movements and brain relays to your legs, it’s possible that a shifted spinal disc could be causing symptoms in your feet and legs.
3. Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy – Cervical spondylotic myelopathy is categorized by age-related degenerative changes in your upper spine. These changes can narrow the space through which spinal nerves pass, again resulting in problems in your extremities. Many patients with CSM note gait problems, balance issues, muscle weakness and numbness in their legs.
4. Spinal Tumor – A rare condition that should be ruled out in the event of unexplained or sudden gait changes is the presence of a spinal tumor. These spinal tumors can develop in different areas along the spine, and in keeping with the theme of this blog, they can grow and compress key spinal nerves. Any growth, be it a tumor, cyst or a bone spur can contribute to walking abnormalities.
5. Spinal Osteoarthritis – Finally, spinal osteoarthritis is another condition that can lead to walking issues. Degenerative changes in your vertebrae or discs can lead to pain, stiffness and nerve compression that can make walking a little more difficult. Exercise, stretching techniques, physical therapy and over-the-counter pain medications can make it a little easier to move and walk comfortably.

Contact a Twin Cities Spine Surgeon

Untreated back problems can lead to worsening gait issues, so if you’re noticing that walking is becoming more difficult, reach out to a physician near you. In the greater Twin Cities area, you’ll find that Dr. Sinicropi and the team at The Midwest Spine & Brain Institute can help. Give their team a call today at (651) 430-3800.

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