Spinal stenosis is a common condition that develops when space inside the spine becomes narrowed, placing pressure on nearby nerves. For many patients, this narrowing happens gradually over time as part of normal age-related changes in the spine. While some people experience only mild discomfort, others may notice symptoms that begin to interfere with daily activities.
At Suburban Orthopaedics, our focus is on helping you understand what is happening in your body, identify the source of your symptoms, and build a treatment plan that supports long-term mobility and comfort.
What Is Spinal Stenosis?
The spine protects the spinal cord and allows nerves to travel from the neck and lower back into the arms and legs. When arthritis, disc degeneration, or bone spurs reduce the space within the spinal canal, those nerves can become compressed or irritated.
Spinal stenosis most often affects one of two areas:
- The cervical spine, which is the neck
- The lumbar spine, which is the lower back
Because these regions serve different parts of the body, symptoms vary depending on where the narrowing occurs. Understanding the location of the stenosis is key to understanding why you may be feeling pain, numbness, or weakness in certain areas.
Cervical Spinal Stenosis: When the Neck is Affected
Cervical spinal stenosis occurs in the neck. Because nerves in this area travel into the shoulders, arms, and hands, symptoms often extend beyond neck discomfort alone.
Common Symptoms of Cervical Spinal Stenosis
- Persistent neck stiffness or soreness
- Tingling or numbness in the shoulders, arms, or hands
- Weakness in the arms or decreased grip strength
- Difficulty with fine motor skills, such as buttoning clothes or writing
- Changes in balance or coordination in more advanced cases
Symptoms of cervical spinal stenosis often develop gradually. Many patients first notice subtle hand weakness or intermittent tingling before more persistent discomfort sets in. If you are experiencing ongoing neck pain along with arm or hand symptoms, a spine evaluation can help determine whether nerve compression in the cervical spine is contributing.
Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: When the Lower Back is Involved
Lumbar spinal stenosis affects the lower back and the nerves that travel into the hips, buttocks, legs, and feet.
Common Symptoms of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
- Chronic lower back discomfort
- Aching, cramping, or burning in the buttocks or legs
- Leg heaviness or fatigue when walking
- Numbness or tingling in the legs or feet
One common characteristic of lumbar spinal stenosis is that discomfort often worsens when standing or walking and improves with sitting or leaning forward. Many patients find relief when bending slightly at the waist or resting. This helps distinguish lumbar spinal stenosis from other causes of leg pain.
If walking regularly triggers discomfort or you are experiencing persistent back pain that radiates into the legs, spine doctors at Suburban Orthopaedics can help find out if lumbar spinal stenosis may be a factor.
How Our Providers Diagnose Spinal Stenosis
Accurate diagnosis of spinal stenosis begins with a detailed conversation about your symptoms, activity level, and overall health. Because cervical and lumbar stenosis affect different nerve pathways, describing where and how you feel symptoms is especially important.
A spinal stenosis evaluation typically includes:
- A conversation about your medical history and symptom patterns
- A physical examination assessing strength, reflexes, balance, and sensation
- Range of motion testing
- Imaging studies when appropriate
Imaging may include:
- X-rays to assess bone structure and arthritis
- MRI scans to visualize discs, nerves, and areas of narrowing
- CT scans in select cases for additional detail
Not every patient requires advanced imaging immediately. At Suburban Orthopaedics, testing is recommended thoughtfully and only when it helps clarify the diagnosis or guide treatment decisions.
Treatment Options for Cervical and Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
Treatment for spinal stenosis depend on severity of symptoms, functional limitations, and personal goals. Many patients respond well to conservative, non-surgical care.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Spinal Stenosis
- Activity modification to reduce nerve irritation
- Structured physical therapy to improve strength, flexibility, posture, and balance
- Anti-inflammatory medications when appropriate
- Targeted injections to calm irritated nerves
- Supportive bracing in select cases
The goal of non-surgical treatment for spinal stenosis is to relieve pressure on nerves while maintaining mobility and independence.
Surgical Treatment for Spinal Stenosis
Surgery may be considered when:
- Symptoms significantly limit walking or daily activities
- Weakness is progressing
- Conservative treatment fails to provide adequate relief
Surgical procedures focus on relieving pressure on affected nerves by creating more space within the spinal canal. Your spine specialist will carefully review risks, expected outcomes, and recover considerations to help you make an informed decision.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spinal Stenosis
Can spinal stenosis go away on its own?
The structural narrowing typically does not reverse. However, many patients experience meaningful symptom improvement with conservative treatments such as physical therapy and activity adjustments.
Does spinal stenosis always get worse?
Not necessarily. Many cases remain stable for years. Symptoms may fluctuate depending on posture, activity level, and overall health.
Can I stay active with spinal stenosis?
In most cases, yes. Staying active is encouraged. The right exercises can support spinal health and reduce symptom flare-ups. Your provider can recommend safe modifications.
When to Take the Next Step
If neck pain, back pain, numbness, or weakness is affecting your daily activities, you do not have to manage it alone.
At Suburban Orthopaedics, our spine specialists focus on clear communication, thoughtful evaluation, and personalized treatment planning. Whether your symptoms are mild or more advanced, we are here to help you understand your options and move forward with confidence.
You can schedule an appointment online or contact our office to discuss your symptoms with a member of our team.
