Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spaces within the spine, which can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. It most commonly occurs in the lumbar (lower back) and cervical (neck) regions. The condition is usually caused by age-related wear and is one of the most common reasons for spine surgery in adults over 65.
Find a SpecialistSymptoms
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in a leg or arm
- Pain or cramping in the legs when walking or standing (neurogenic claudication)
- Back pain that improves when sitting or bending forward
- Difficulty walking long distances
- Balance problems
- In severe cases, bladder or bowel dysfunction
When to See a Doctor
See a spine specialist if you have progressive numbness or weakness in your legs, if walking distance is decreasing, or if you have difficulty with balance. Seek emergency care for sudden loss of bladder or bowel control.
Treatment Options
Physical therapy
Exercises to strengthen core muscles, improve flexibility, and maintain spinal stability. Flexion-based exercises (bending forward) often relieve symptoms.
Medications
NSAIDs for pain and inflammation. Gabapentin or pregabalin for nerve-related pain. Muscle relaxants for spasms.
Epidural steroid injections
Targeted injection of corticosteroids near the affected nerves to reduce inflammation and pain. Provides weeks to months of relief.
Laminectomy (decompression surgery)
Removes bone and thickened ligament to create more space for the nerves. Most common surgery for lumbar stenosis. 80-90% success rate for leg symptoms.
Recovery Timeline
Conservative treatment is ongoing - exercises and injections manage symptoms over time. Laminectomy: walking within hours of surgery, return to normal activities in 4-8 weeks, full recovery in 3-6 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can spinal stenosis be cured?
Spinal stenosis caused by degenerative changes cannot be reversed, but symptoms can be effectively managed. Surgery (laminectomy) can relieve nerve compression with an 80-90% success rate for leg symptoms. Conservative treatments control pain for many patients without surgery.
Is walking good for spinal stenosis?
Walking is generally recommended for spinal stenosis, though patients may need to take frequent rest breaks. Leaning forward (on a shopping cart or walker) opens the spinal canal and reduces symptoms. Stationary cycling is well-tolerated because it involves a flexed position.
What type of doctor treats spinal stenosis?
Orthopaedic spine surgeons and neurosurgeons are the primary specialists for spinal stenosis. Physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) doctors and pain management specialists also play important roles in non-surgical management.
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.