Chronic exertional compartment syndrome is one of the most common causes of pain, numbness, and foot drop, most often seen in runners.
What is the Epidural Space?
The dura is a protective covering of the spinal cord and its nerves. The area surrounding the dura is the epidural space. In the lower back, the space is called the lumbar epidural space.
What Causes Pain in the Epidural Space?
The lumbar area of the spine has five bones, called vertebrae. Soft discs between the vertebrae act as cushions, offering support and controlling motion. If a disc tears, chemicals inside may leak out, causing inflammation of nerve roots or the dura, and pain.
A larger tear may cause a disc to bulge, resulting in inflammation and pain. Bone spurs, called osteophytes, can also press against nerve roots and cause pain.