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Spinal Stenosis Treatment

Spinal Stenosis

4.9/240+ Reviews

Spinal Stenosis
Spinal Stenosis

4.9/240+ Reviews

Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis can cause back or neck pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms or legs. You may notice discomfort when standing or walking for long periods, sometimes improving when you sit or lean forward. At MVM Health, our pain specialists evaluate your symptoms, identify possible causes, and discuss personalized spinal stenosis treatment options to help manage pain and improve mobility.

Book a visit with a pain specialist near you at one of our clinics in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Ohio, or Arizona.

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At MVM Health — Movement. Vitality. Medicine. — we are committed to providing exceptional pain, vein, and wellness services that empower individuals to reclaim their health and well-being. With our team of Harvard-trained experts, we strive to deliver transformative outcomes that restore comfort, confidence, and quality of life. MVM Health’s mission is to help every patient relieve discomfort, restore motion, and renew life.

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Spinal Stenosis

Vwaire Orhurhu, MD, MPH
Harvard Medical School

Spinal Stenosis

Mariam Salisu, MD, MPH
Harvard Medical School

Spinal Stenosis

Peter Isaac, DO
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine

Spinal Stenosis

Ali Amin, MD
Baylor College of Medicine

Spinal Stenosis

THOMAS KHOURY, MD
Harvard Medical School

Spinal Stenosis

ANTHONY TURNER, MD
Yale School of Medicine

Spinal Stenosis

KIRAN C. TAMIRISA
Baylor College of Medicine

Spinal Stenosis

TARIQ ALFARRA, DO
JOHNS HOPKINS HOSPITAL

Spinal Stenosis

Rishi Sheth, MD
University of Miami School of Medicine

Spinal Stenosis

Henry Onyeaka, MD, MPH
Harvard Medical School

Spinal Stenosis

Felicia Todd, CNP
Moravian College

Spinal Stenosis

Carrie Ward, CNP
Franklin University

Spinal Stenosis

Kruti Solanki, CNP
Drexel University

Spinal Stenosis

Christy Daniels, CNP
Chamberlain University

Spinal Stenosis

Heerina Kittel, CNP
Maryville University

Spinal Stenosis

Vic Urbano, CNP
Walden University

Spinal Stenosis

Jameela Azeem, CNP
Hofstra University

Spinal Stenosis

Vwaire Orhurhu, MD, MPH
Harvard Medical School

Spinal Stenosis

Mariam Salisu, MD, MPH
Harvard Medical School

Spinal Stenosis

Peter Isaac, DO
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine

Spinal Stenosis

Ali Amin, MD
Baylor College of Medicine

Spinal Stenosis

THOMAS KHOURY, MD
Harvard Medical School

Spinal Stenosis

ANTHONY TURNER, MD
Yale School of Medicine

Spinal Stenosis

KIRAN C. TAMIRISA
Baylor College of Medicine

Spinal Stenosis

Rishi Seth, MD
University of Miami School of Medicine

Spinal Stenosis

Henry Onyeaka, MD, MPH
Harvard Medical School

Spinal Stenosis

Felicia Todd, CNP
Moravian College

Spinal Stenosis

Vic Urbano, CNP
Walden University

Spinal Stenosis

Jameela Azeem, CNP
Hofstra University

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What Is Spinal Stenosis?

Spinal stenosis occurs when spaces within the spine become narrower, placing pressure on the spinal cord or nearby nerves. This narrowing commonly develops due to age-related changes, such as arthritis, thickened ligaments, or bulging discs. It most often affects the neck and lower back.

Cervical vs. Lumbar Spinal Stenosis. Cervical spinal stenosis affects the neck and may cause chronic pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms and hands. Lumbar spinal stenosis develops in the lower back and can cause leg pain, heaviness, or weakness, especially when standing or walking.

Mild vs. Severe Spinal Stenosis. Mild spinal stenosis may cause occasional discomfort or no noticeable symptoms. More severe narrowing can compress nerves or the spinal cord, leading to persistent pain, numbness, weakness, or difficulty walking. Symptoms do not always match the degree of narrowing seen on imaging.

Spinal Stenosis

WHERE DOES SPINAL STENOSIS DEVELOP?

Spinal stenosis can develop in different parts of the spine when the spaces surrounding the spinal cord or nerves become narrower. Symptoms vary depending on the affected area and the degree of nerve compression.

NECK (CERVICAL SPINE)

Cervical spinal stenosis affects the neck and may cause pain, stiffness, numbness, or tingling in the shoulders, arms, and hands. If the spinal cord becomes compressed, it may also affect balance, walking, and hand coordination.

MID-BACK (THORACIC SPINE)

Thoracic spinal stenosis develops in the middle portion of the spine and is relatively uncommon. It may cause pain between the shoulder blades, discomfort around the chest or ribs, and changes in sensation. Severe narrowing can also affect leg strength and walking.

LOWER BACK (LUMBAR SPINE)

Lumbar spinal stenosis affects the lower back and commonly causes pain, tingling, heaviness, or weakness in the buttocks and legs. Symptoms often worsen during standing or walking and may improve when sitting or bending forward.

LOWER SPINE (LUMBOSACRAL REGION)

Stenosis near the junction of the lumbar spine and sacrum can compress nerves traveling into the legs and feet. This may cause radiating leg pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that makes standing, walking, and daily activities uncomfortable.

COMMON CAUSES OF SPINAL STENOSIS

BONE SPURS AND ARTHRITIS

Age-related arthritis can cause extra bone growth around spinal joints. These bone spurs may narrow the spinal canal and place pressure on nearby nerves.

HERNIATED OR BULGING DISCS

Spinal discs may bulge or herniate due to aging or injury. When disc material extends into the spinal canal, it can reduce space and compress nearby nerves.

THICKENED SPINAL LIGAMENTS

Ligaments that support the spine may become thicker and less flexible over time. This thickening can reduce space within the spinal canal and contribute to nerve compression.

POST-SURGICAL SCARRING

Scar tissue may develop around spinal nerves following back surgery. In some cases, this can contribute to nerve irritation or narrowing, although not all post-surgical pain is caused by stenosis.

LUMBAR SPINAL STENOSIS

Lumbar spinal stenosis affects the lower back, often due to arthritis, disc changes, or thickened ligaments. It may cause leg pain, numbness, or weakness, particularly during walking.

CERVICAL SPINAL STENOSIS

Cervical spinal stenosis develops in the neck when age-related changes, bone spurs, or disc problems narrow the spinal canal and place pressure on nerves or the spinal cord.

THORACIC SPINAL STENOSIS

Thoracic spinal stenosis affects the mid-back and is less common. Disc degeneration, bone spurs, or ligament thickening may narrow the canal and compress the spinal cord.

DEGENERATIVE DISC DISEASE

As spinal discs lose moisture and height with age, surrounding joints and ligaments may change. These changes can gradually reduce space within the spinal canal.

Risk Factors

Certain factors can increase your likelihood of developing spinal stenosis

  • Age: Spinal stenosis becomes more common after age 50 due to natural wear and tear.
  • Spinal Arthritis: Arthritis can cause bone spurs that narrow the spinal canal.
  • Disc Degeneration: Aging spinal discs may lose height and contribute to narrowing.
  • Previous Spine Injuries: Past injuries can change spinal structures and increase the risk of narrowing.
  • Congenital Narrowing: Some people are born with a naturally smaller spinal canal.
  • Spondylolisthesis: A slipped vertebra can reduce space around spinal nerves.

Symptoms of Back Pain

Symptoms depend on the location and severity of the narrowing

  • Pain or stiffness in the neck or lower back.
  • Numbness or tingling in the arms, hands, legs, or feet.
  • Pain that spreads into the shoulders, buttocks, or legs.
  • Leg heaviness, cramping, or discomfort while walking.
  • Symptoms that worsen when standing or walking for long periods.
  • Pain or discomfort that improves when sitting or leaning forward.
  • Muscle weakness affecting the arms, hands, or legs.
  • Difficulty walking, maintaining balance, or performing daily activities.

WARNING SIGNS OF SERIOUS SPINAL STENOSIS

Most cases of spinal stenosis are not medical emergencies. However, seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Loss of bladder or bowel control, or numbness around the groin or inner thighs.
  • Sudden or rapidly worsening weakness in your arms, hands, or legs.
  • New difficulty walking, maintaining balance, or coordinating movements.
  • Rapidly worsening numbness or loss of sensation in your arms or legs.
  • Severe neck or back pain following a fall, car accident, or other injury.
  • Fever, chills, or feeling seriously unwell alongside severe back or neck pain.

These symptoms may indicate serious spinal cord or nerve compression, infection, or another condition requiring emergency medical evaluation.

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 Posted on Google Spinal Stenosis 
 
 Spinal Stenosis 
 
 
 Brenda Giles 
 
 
 
 Spinal StenosisSpinal StenosisSpinal StenosisSpinal StenosisSpinal StenosisTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Everybody was very pleasant and not long waiting at all
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Spinal Stenosis 
 
 
 Lala Kenjo 
 
 
 
 Spinal StenosisSpinal StenosisSpinal StenosisSpinal StenosisSpinal StenosisTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
I'm going to say Dr. O is a miracle worker. I have two herniated discs in my neck and the pain was so severe, I had to roll out of bed some days. I went to see Dr. O and was scheduled for an injection in my neck. The first injection helped a little bit, but I was still in severe pain most days. Speaking to other people, it normally takes two injections so I went from my second injection with Dr. O. Oh, and by the way, he squeezed me in the very next day for the procedure. I have not felt this good in a very long time. I can actually sit in a chair without my neck throbbing from pain and I've even started taking better care of my vegetable garden in my yard. Like I said this man is a miracle worker. Love, love, love him and I highly recommend him. Oh, and all of his staff are extremely friendly, patient, and very empathetic to their patients.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google Spinal Stenosis 
 
 Spinal Stenosis 
 
 
 Maryann Iko 
 
 
 
 Spinal StenosisSpinal StenosisSpinal StenosisSpinal StenosisSpinal StenosisTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Everyone is friendly and feeling good about them helping me
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Spinal Stenosis 
 
 
 MARCE CASTAÑO 
 
 
 
 Spinal StenosisSpinal StenosisSpinal StenosisSpinal StenosisSpinal StenosisTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
“My experience today was excellent. From the moment I arrived, the staff was welcoming and attentive. The way everything was explained to me made the process clear and easy to understand. I felt very comfortable and, most importantly, safe throughout my visit. I truly appreciate the professionalism and care I received.”
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google Spinal Stenosis 
 
 Spinal Stenosis 
 
 
 Barbara Quarantello 
 
 
 
 Spinal StenosisSpinal StenosisSpinal StenosisSpinal StenosisSpinal StenosisTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
I have been a patient of Dr. Orhurhu for over a year and the care he has given me has been exceptional. I had a compound fracture of my L2 vertebrae in May 2024 and he performed a Kyphoplasty in his office with wonderful results. I still have issues with my back due to scoliosis and bulgeing discs that impinge on my spine. Dr.O suggested ablation therpy on my low back along with 4 epidural injections with 2 more to come this week. But I have great faith in Dr. Orhurhu that I will be improving under his excellent care and guidance.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google Spinal Stenosis 
 
 Spinal Stenosis 
 
 
 Seleimy Suárez Rodríguez 
 
 
 
 Spinal StenosisSpinal StenosisSpinal StenosisSpinal StenosisSpinal StenosisTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Me gustó bastante y mucho la atención de el Señor Andy, excelente coordinador. Excelentes servicios en todo!!! Quede muy encantada.

SPINAL STENOSIS TREATMENT OPTIONS

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Spinal stenosis treatment focuses on reducing nerve pressure, easing discomfort, and improving mobility. Non-surgical options are usually considered first, with more advanced treatments recommended when necessary.

Spinal Stenosis

Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections

Anti-inflammatory medicine is placed near irritated spinal nerves to ease pain that radiates into an arm or leg, such as from a herniated disc or stenosis.
Spinal Stenosis

Caudal Steroid Injections

Caudal steroid injections deliver anti-inflammatory medication into the lower spinal epidural space to help reduce nerve irritation and relieve back or leg pain associated with spinal stenosis.

Spinal Stenosis

Facet joint injections

Medicine is placed in or near the small joints of the spine to ease arthritis pain. A positive response also helps confirm where the pain starts.
Spinal Stenosis

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA)

Controlled heat quiets the small nerves that carry pain signals from arthritic spine joints. It’s often considered after a successful nerve block.
Spinal Stenosis

Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS)

A small device sends mild electrical pulses that change how pain signals reach the brain. It’s used for long-term pain that hasn’t responded to other care, and it starts with a short trial.
Spinal Stenosis

Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression

This procedure removes excess ligament tissue contributing to spinal canal narrowing, helping reduce nerve pressure and improve walking ability in selected patients with lumbar spinal stenosis.

MANAGING SPINAL STENOSIS SYMPTOMS AT HOME

For mild spinal stenosis symptoms without warning signs, these steps may help reduce discomfort and support daily movement.
Spinal Stenosis

If spinal stenosis symptoms continue, worsen, or limit your ability to walk or complete daily activities, schedule an evaluation with a pain specialist.

Stay Gently Active. Short Walks, Light Stretching, or Low-Impact Activities Like Stationary Cycling May Help Maintain Mobility. Take Breaks When Symptoms Increase and Avoid Movements That Worsen Pain.

Use Heat or Cold Therapy. Apply a Warm Compress to Relax Tight Muscles or a Cold Pack to Ease Temporary Discomfort. Wrap Packs in a Towel and Limit Each Application to 15–20 Minutes.

Consider Pain Relief Options. Over-The-Counter Pain Medications May Provide Temporary Relief for Some People. Consult Your Healthcare Provider Before Using Them, Especially If You Have Other Medical Conditions or Take Regular Medications.

Adjust Your Resting Position. Rest in a Comfortable Position That Reduces Pressure on Your Lower Back. Lying on Your Side with a Pillow Between Your Knees or on Your Back with Your Knees Supported May Help.

Modify Daily Activities. Avoid Prolonged Standing, Heavy Lifting, and Activities That Aggravate Symptoms. Take Regular Breaks and Consider Using Supportive Seating or a Walking Aid When Recommended.

Maintain a Healthy Weight. Excess Body Weight Can Increase Stress on the Lower Back. Balanced Nutrition and Suitable Low-Impact Physical Activity May Help Support Spinal Health and Everyday Mobility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the primary symptoms of spinal stenosis?
Symptoms include back or neck pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the limbs. Patients often experience cramping or aching in the legs that worsens when standing or walking upright.
What causes spinal stenosis to develop?
It typically results from age-related changes like osteoarthritis, which forms bone spurs. Other causes include thickened ligaments, herniated discs, spinal injuries, congenital conditions, or, rarely, tumors or spinal cysts.
How is spinal stenosis diagnosed?
Doctors diagnose it by reviewing your medical history, performing a physical exam to test reflexes and strength, and using imaging studies like X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to visualize the spine.
Can spinal stenosis get better on its own?
Spinal stenosis generally does not reverse on its own because the structural narrowing of the spinal canal usually remains. However, symptoms may improve with physical therapy, activity modifications, medications, or other nonsurgical treatments. Some people experience mild symptoms that can be managed without surgery.
When should I worry about spinal stenosis?
You should seek medical evaluation if you experience worsening pain, persistent numbness, muscle weakness, or increasing difficulty walking. Sudden loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the groin, or rapidly worsening weakness requires emergency medical attention.
What treatment options are available for spinal stenosis?
There is no single treatment that works for everyone with spinal stenosis. Depending on symptoms and the severity of nerve compression, treatment may include physical therapy, medications, activity modifications, or epidural steroid injections for selected patients. Surgery may be considered when appropriate.
Can spinal stenosis be managed without surgery?
Yes. Many people manage spinal stenosis symptoms through nonsurgical approaches, including physical therapy, medications, low-impact exercise, and activity adjustments. However, significant spinal cord compression, progressive neurological weakness, or persistent disabling symptoms may require surgical evaluation.
Is walking or exercise helpful for spinal stenosis?
Gentle physical activity can help maintain strength, flexibility, and mobility. Some people with lumbar spinal stenosis find stationary cycling or supported walking more comfortable than prolonged upright walking. Exercise should be adapted to your symptoms and guided by a healthcare professional when needed.
Can regenerative medicine help with spinal stenosis?
Regenerative therapies, such as stem cell or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, are being explored to potentially reduce inflammation and support the healing of damaged spinal tissues, though more research is ongoing.
Can spinal stenosis symptoms get worse over time?
Spinal stenosis symptoms may gradually worsen as the space around the spinal nerves becomes narrower. Some people experience increasing pain, numbness, tingling, or difficulty walking, while others have stable symptoms for years. Early evaluation and appropriate treatment may help manage discomfort and maintain daily mobility.

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