Spinal stenosis

What Is Spinal Stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is a condition where the spaces within the spine narrow, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots. This narrowing can occur in the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), or lumbar (lower back) regions, with lumbar and cervical being the most common.

Causes of Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis can result from:

Degenerative changes (e.g., osteoarthritis, disc degeneration)
Bone spurs (osteophytes)
Thickened ligaments (ligamentum flavum hypertrophy)
Herniated discs
Spinal injuries or fractures
Tumors or cysts
Congenital narrowing of the spinal canal
Spondylolisthesis (vertebral slippage)

Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis

Symptoms depend on the location and severity of the narrowing:

Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Lower back pain
Pain radiating to buttocks and legs (sciatica)
Numbness, tingling, or cramping in legs
Weakness in legs or feet
Difficulty walking or standing for long periods
Relief when bending forward or sitting

Cervical Spinal Stenosis

Neck pain
Numbness or tingling in arms and hands
Weakness in arms or fingers
Balance issues
In severe cases: bowel or bladder dysfunction

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically includes:

Physical exam and neurological assessment
X-rays to detect bone changes
MRI or CT scans to visualize soft tissues and nerve compression
Electromyography (EMG) to assess nerve function

Treatment Options

1. Conservative Management

Physical therapy to improve strength, flexibility, and balance
Pain medications (NSAIDs, acetaminophen, antidepressants, anti-seizure drugs)
Steroid injections to reduce inflammation
Bracing for support during movement [Spinal ste…ayo Clinic]

2. Minimally Invasive Procedures

Needle-based ligament reduction
Spinal decompression therapy
Chiropractic care

3. Surgical Options

Laminectomy or laminotomy to remove bone and relieve pressure
Spinal fusion for instability
Interspinous distraction devices (spacers between vertebrae)
Stem cell therapy and acupotomy (emerging treatments)

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Call us at (561) 433-4444 to schedule a consultation or make an appointment.
Let our experienced doctors help you relieve spinal stenosis and restore your comfort and mobility.