Spinal stenosis is a condition that occurs when the spaces within your spine narrow, putting pressure on your spinal cord and nerves. The narrowing often develops gradually and is most common in the lower back (lumbar stenosis) and neck (cervical stenosis).
The condition mimics that of others. That’s why at BioHealth Pain Management, Rostam Khoshsar, MD, and Adrian Darryll Sulindro, MD, emphasize the importance of providing an accurate diagnosis so you can get proper treatment. The goal is to relieve your pain and protect your spinal health long-term.
A diagnosis begins with a thorough medical history and physical exam. Dr. Khoshsar or Dr. Sulindro asks about your symptoms, such as back pain, neck pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or difficulty walking. They also assess your reflexes, muscle strength, and range of motion.
They may need imaging tests to confirm spinal stenosis and rule out other causes. Common tools include:
These tests allow your doctor to pinpoint the exact location and severity of narrowing, which guides their treatment planning.
Treatment depends on the severity of your symptoms and how much those symptoms interfere with your daily life. Many patients improve with conservative, nonsurgical options, and we always try these before our team considers surgery. Options may include:
Over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, or prescription medications can help reduce discomfort.
Exercises improve flexibility, strength, and posture, which can relieve nerve pressure and improve mobility.
These injections target specific nerves to block pain signals from reaching your brain, providing relief and allowing you to participate more comfortably in therapy and daily activities.
Corticosteroids injected near the affected nerves reduce inflammation and can provide temporary relief.
Maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and using proper body mechanics can lessen stress on your spine.
If your symptoms don’t improve, or if nerve compression causes severe weakness, loss of bladder/bowel control, or mobility issues, our BioHealth Pain Management medical team may recommend surgery.
Common procedures include:
You can rely on our team’s expertise to recommend the right surgical approach. The goal is to help you experience significant pain relief, improved mobility, and a better quality of life, so you can return to the activities you enjoy most.
If you have persistent back pain, neck pain, numbness, or difficulty walking, don’t delay making an appointment with our medical professionals. We can provide an early diagnosis and treatment that can help prevent worsening symptoms.
While surgery is sometimes necessary, many people find lasting relief with nonsurgical options.
Click here to request an appointment with our qualified healthcare providers at the location closest to you.
