Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis, often caused by the narrowing of the spinal canal, can lead to painful symptoms such as back pain, numbness, weakness, and difficulty walking or standing for long periods. If left untreated, it can have a largely negative impact on patients’ lives.

At The Center for Advanced Orthopaedics Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland Division, we offer expert care for patients with spinal stenosis. From thorough evaluations to personalized treatment plans, we are dedicated to helping you find relief and return to the activities you enjoy.

What is Spinal Stenosis?

Spinal stenosis occurs when the spaces within your spine become narrowed, putting pressure on the nerves traveling through it. This condition often affects the neck (cervical spine) or lower back (lumbar spine) and can cause pain, numbness, or weakness.

While spinal stenosis can be mild in some cases, severe narrowing may significantly impact your ability to move freely and perform daily activities. Early diagnosis and effective treatment are key to managing this condition.

Common Causes of Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis typically develops over time and is often linked to age-related changes in the spine. Some patients, however, may have congenital conditions that contribute to spinal narrowing. Common causes include:

  • Arthritis: Wear and tear in the joints can lead to the formation of bone spurs that narrow the spinal canal.
  • Herniated Discs: A bulging or ruptured disc can compress the nerves in your spine.
  • Thickened Ligaments: Ligaments within the spine can thicken over time, restricting space within the spinal canal.
  • Spinal Injuries: Trauma, such as fractures or dislocations, can alter the spine's structure and cause stenosis.
  • Congenital Spinal Stenosis: Some individuals are born with a naturally narrower spinal canal.

Understanding the root cause of your spinal stenosis is critical for choosing the right treatment approach.

Spinal Stenosis Signs & Symptoms

The symptoms of spinal stenosis can vary depending on the location and severity of nerve compression. Common signs include:

  • Neck or back pain: Discomfort may range from mild to severe, often worsening with prolonged activity.
  • Numbness or tingling: Affected areas may include the arms, hands, legs, or feet.
  • Weakness: Muscle weakness can make it difficult to walk or perform tasks.
  • Pain while standing or walking: Symptoms often improve when sitting or bending forward.

If you experience these symptoms, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with our expert providers for a comprehensive evaluation.

Diagnosis & Evaluation

At The Center for Advanced Orthopaedics Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland Division, we use advanced diagnostic tools to accurately assess spinal stenosis. Our diagnostic process involves several steps to ensure we gain a complete understanding of your condition.

Our evaluation methods include:

  • Medical History Review: Your provider will discuss your symptoms, activities, and any underlying health conditions with you.
  • Physical Examination: Testing your range of motion, reflexes, and nerve function helps your physician pinpoint areas of concern.
  • Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans provide detailed images of your spine, helping your care team identify narrowing and nerve compression.

With this comprehensive approach, we ensure you receive an accurate diagnosis and a clear treatment plan.

Treatments for Spinal Stenosis

Treating spinal stenosis requires a personalized approach, tailored to each patient’s symptoms and lifestyle. At The Center for Advanced Orthopaedics Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland Division, we offer both non-surgical and surgical treatment options to help you find relief.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Many patients with spinal stenosis can achieve significant relief with conservative care.

Non-surgical treatments we offer include:

  • Physical Therapy: Strengthening the muscles around the spine can improve support and reduce strain.
  • Medication Management: Anti-inflammatory drugs or muscle relaxants can help ease pain and inflammation.
  • Epidural Steroid Injections: Targeted injections can reduce swelling and relieve nerve irritation.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Changes like maintaining a healthy weight and improving posture can minimize symptoms.

These approaches are often effective in managing symptoms without the need for surgery.

Surgical Treatment Options

If non-surgical methods do not provide sufficient relief or if nerve compression is severe, surgery may be necessary.

Surgical options include:

  • Laminectomy: Removing the back part of the affected vertebra to create more space for the spinal cord and nerves.
  • Spinal Fusion: Stabilizing the spine by fusing two or more vertebrae together, often done alongside decompression surgery.
  • Discectomy: Removing parts of a herniated or bulging disc to alleviate nerve pressure.

Our skilled spinal surgeons use minimally invasive techniques whenever possible, ensuring quicker recovery times and less post-operative pain.

FAQs

Spinal stenosis typically worsens over time due to ongoing wear and tear or degenerative changes in the spine. Activities that place excessive strain on the back can also contribute.

While spinal stenosis does not typically resolve without treatment, many patients find relief through non-surgical therapies. Early intervention can help alleviate symptoms and slow progression.

Spinal stenosis refers to a narrowing of the spinal canal, while herniated discs occur when the gel-like center of a disc pushes out and compresses a nerve. Both conditions can cause similar symptoms but require different treatments.

It’s best to avoid high-impact activities, heavy lifting, or prolonged standing, as these can aggravate symptoms. Low-impact options like swimming or walking often work well.

You should consider seeing a doctor if your neck or back pain persists for more than a few weeks, interferes with daily activities, or worsens over time. Additionally, seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms such as numbness, tingling, weakness in your arms or legs, or loss of bladder or bowel control, as these could indicate a more serious condition requiring prompt evaluation and treatment.

Effective Spinal Stenosis Treatment in Central Maryland

At The Center for Advanced Orthopaedics Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland Division, our mission is to provide compassionate and effective care tailored to your needs. If spinal stenosis is affecting your daily life, reach out to us for expert diagnosis and treatment options.

To schedule an appointment with one of our spine specialists, we encourage you to request an appointment online, or call (410) 644-1880 or toll-free at (855) 4MD-BONE. If you are interested in physical therapy services, please call (443) 478-4449, or please call (443) 478-4449 for appointments across all eight of our locations. Together, we will work to help you regain mobility and live pain-free.