A 55-year-old woman presents with pain in her left leg that intensifies when she walks or stands but eases when she leans forward or sits. What might be the cause and what are the next steps?
This patient's symptoms suggest lumbar spinal stenosis, which is causing sciatica-like symptoms. In this condition, narrowing of the spinal canal puts pressure on the nerves. When the patient stands or walks, the spinal canal narrows even further, increasing the pain. The next steps should include a physical examination and imaging studies, like an X-ray or an MRI, to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options range from conservative measures like physical therapy and medication to more invasive procedures like epidural steroid injections or surgery.