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Spinal Stenosis Q & A

What is spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of space in the spine, decreasing room for the spinal cord and spinal nerves. This narrowing may irritate or compress the spinal cord or spinal nerves, causing pain symptoms.

You can develop spinal stenosis at any time. Some people are born with a narrow spine. However, it most often occurs from age-related spine changes like degenerative disc disease or osteoarthritis.

Spinal stenosis is a progressive condition, and symptoms worsen over time. Apex Pain Specialists takes an integrative approach to spinal stenosis, creating plans that slow down the narrowing, reducing or delaying pain symptoms.

What are the symptoms of spinal stenosis?

Not everyone with spinal stenosis has symptoms. But once symptoms start, you can expect them to get worse. 

Spinal stenosis may affect any part of the spine but most often occurs in the neck (cervical spine) or lower back (lumbar spine). Symptoms may vary depending on the location of the narrowing and may include:

  • Neck or back pain
  • Pain that radiates into the arms or legs
  • Burning, tingling, or numbness
  • Muscle weakness
  • Poor balance when walking

Spinal stenosis is also a common cause of sciatica, a nerve condition involving the sciatic nerve, causing pain that travels from the lower back into the back of your leg. 

What can I expect during a spinal stenosis evaluation?

You can expect a patient-centered evaluation at Apex Pain Specialists when you come in for help with your spinal stenosis. The pain experts want to fully understand your pain condition so they can provide an effective plan.

They review your symptoms and activities that make them worse and better. They perform a physical exam and may request diagnostic tests to confirm your spinal stenosis and assess the severity of the narrowing. 

What are some of my treatment options for spinal stenosis?

The pain management experts at Apex Pain Specialists take an integrative approach to care, combining interventional pain treatments with medical and alternative therapies to help you get the most effective care.

Treatment options for spinal stenosis may include:

  • Physical therapy
  • Analgesics
  • Epidural steroid injections
  • Nerve block
  • Radiofrequency ablation
  • Spinal cord stimulator
  • Discseel® Procedure

The providers at Apex Pain Specialists use the most advanced treatments available to maximize relief.

For help with your spinal stenosis, call Apex Pain Specialists or schedule an appointment online today.