Spinal Stenosis
What Is Spinal Stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is a condition where the spaces within the spine become narrowed. This narrowing can place pressure on the spinal cord or the nerves that travel through the spine, leading to pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness.
Spinal stenosis most commonly develops in two areas:
- Cervical spine (neck)
- Lumbar spine (lower back)
It is usually a gradual condition caused by age-related changes in the spine, but symptoms can vary widely from mild discomfort to significant nerve-related problems.
At OIBortho, our physicians evaluate and treat spinal stenosis for patients throughout Middlesex, Monmouth, and Ocean Counties.
Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis
Symptoms depend on where the narrowing occurs and which nerves are affected.
Common symptoms include:
- Neck or back pain
- Numbness or tingling in the arms, hands, legs, or feet
- Muscle weakness
- Cramping or heaviness in the legs
- Pain that worsens with standing or walking
- Relief of symptoms when sitting or leaning forward
- Balance problems (in cervical stenosis)
- Reduced coordination or hand function
In some cases, symptoms develop slowly and worsen over time.
Causes and Risk Factors
Spinal stenosis is most often caused by age-related wear and tear of the spine.
Common causes include:
- Arthritis of the spine
- Bone spurs
- Bulging or herniated discs
- Thickened spinal ligaments
- Degenerative disc disease
- Previous spine injuries
- Congenital (born with a narrow spinal canal)
These changes can reduce the space available for nerves and the spinal cord.
How Spinal Stenosis Is Diagnosed
A physician will begin with a physical and neurological exam to assess strength, reflexes, sensation, and walking ability.
Diagnostic testing may include:
- X-rays
- MRI scans (best for viewing nerves and spinal canal narrowing)
- CT scans
- Nerve studies (EMG/NCS) if needed
These tools help identify where the narrowing is occurring and how severe it is.
Understanding Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis affects how freely the spinal cord and nerves can move within the spinal canal. When space becomes limited, normal activities like walking or standing can become uncomfortable.
A common pattern is that symptoms worsen with activity and improve with rest or bending forward, which temporarily opens space in the spinal canal.
Management and Treatment Options
Treatment depends on symptom severity and how much the nerves are affected.
Common options include:
- Activity modification
- Physical therapy
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Epidural steroid injections
- Core strengthening and flexibility exercises
- Pain management techniques
- Surgical decompression in more advanced cases
Many patients improve with non-surgical care, especially when treatment begins early.
Why Choose OIBortho?
OIBortho provides expert evaluation and treatment for spinal stenosis using a patient-focused approach. Our physicians use advanced imaging and detailed clinical evaluation to determine the best treatment path for each individual.
We serve patients throughout Middlesex, Monmouth, and Ocean Counties with comprehensive orthopaedic spine care close to home.
Call 732-800-9000 to speak with one of our scheduling specialists or click here to schedule online 24/7!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is spinal stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the spinal canal that can place pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
What causes spinal stenosis?
It is most commonly caused by aging-related changes such as arthritis, bone spurs, and disc degeneration.
What does spinal stenosis feel like?
It can cause pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or heaviness in the arms or legs, depending on location.
Does spinal stenosis get worse over time?
It can progress gradually, but many patients manage symptoms effectively with treatment.
Can spinal stenosis be treated without surgery?
Yes. Many cases improve with physical therapy, medications, injections, and lifestyle changes.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery may be recommended when symptoms are severe, progressive, or significantly affect daily activities.