Neck · Decompression
Lumbar Decompression
Surgery that opens space in the lower spine to relieve pressure on nerves — easing leg pain, numbness and heaviness when standing or walking.
Overview
What is Lumbar Decompression?
Lumbar decompression is a general term for procedures that remove whatever is crowding the nerves in the lower back — such as a bulging disc, bone spurs, thickened ligaments or overgrown joints.
It is commonly used for lumbar stenosis, where narrowing of the spinal canal causes leg symptoms that worsen with standing or walking and improve with sitting.
Conditions it may treat
Medicare, PPO, private insurance, workers’ comp & cash accepted →
How it works
The procedure, step by step
Step 1
Evaluation
Exam and MRI identify the levels and sources of compression.
Step 2
Access
Through a small incision, muscles are gently moved aside.
Step 3
Decompression
Tissue pressing on the nerves is removed to widen the canal.
Step 4
Stabilization if needed
A lumbar fusion may be added if the spine is unstable.
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Less disruption.
A quicker return to life.
Many lumbar decompressions can be performed with minimally invasive techniques that limit disruption to muscle and may shorten recovery.
Conservative first
A Conservative Approach to Spine Care
Dr. Record believes that surgery is not necessarily the first step for every patient. Whenever appropriate, she works with patients to explore non-operative and conservative treatment options first.
When conservative treatment does not provide sufficient relief — or when a patient would like to understand whether surgery may be appropriate — Dr. Record provides a comprehensive discussion of available surgical options.
Her goal is to identify the treatment approach that can help alleviate pain, restore function, and help patients return to the activities that matter to them.
FAQ
Questions about Lumbar Decompression
Don’t see your question? Call (213) 876-8670.
Is decompression the same as a laminectomy?
A laminectomy is one type of decompression. Decompression can also include removing disc material, bone spurs or thickened ligament.
How do I know if stenosis is causing my symptoms?
Leg pain or heaviness that worsens with walking and eases when you sit or lean forward is a classic sign. Diagnostic testing confirms it.
Will I have imaging done at the office?
No. There are no X-rays in-house. When needed, Dr. Record orders X-rays, MRI, CT scans, nerve testing or lab work through outside facilities and reviews the results with you.
Will my insurance cover this procedure?
Dr. Record accepts Medicare, workers’ compensation, PPO plans and a variety of private insurance plans, plus cash payments. Many procedures need pre-authorization — our team will help check your coverage before surgery.
Walk and stand comfortably again
Find out whether lumbar decompression could relieve your stenosis.