1. What is Spinal Stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is a condition where the spaces in the spine become narrowed, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. It can affect the neck (cervical stenosis), lower back (lumbar stenosis), or mid-back (thoracic stenosis). The condition often develops slowly and can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs. In some cases, spinal stenosis can be treated with minimally invasive spine surgery, which reduces muscle damage, blood loss, and recovery time compared to traditional open surgery.

2. Causes of Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is most often caused by age-related changes, including:

• Arthritis and wear-and-tear – leading to bone spurs and joint thickening

• Herniated or bulging discs – pressing on nearby nerves

• Thickened ligaments – which can narrow the spinal canal

• Spinal injuries – such as fractures or dislocations

• Tumors or infections – rare but possible causes

• Congenital spinal stenosis – when someone is born with a narrow spinal canal

3. Symptoms

The symptoms of spinal stenosis vary depending on where it occurs:

Cervical (neck) stenosis:

• Neck pain or stiffness

• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs

• Problems with balance or walking

Lumbar (lower back) stenosis:

• Lower back pain

• Pain, numbness, or tingling in the buttocks or legs

• Leg pain that worsens with standing or walking but improves when sitting or leaning forward (neurogenic claudication)

• Weakness in the legs

• Severe cases: bladder or bowel problems

4. Diagnosis

Spinal stenosis is diagnosed through:

• Medical history and physical exam – checking flexibility, strength, and nerve function

• X-rays – to show bone changes

• MRI – to see soft tissues, discs, and nerves

• CT scans – for detailed bone images

• Nerve studies (EMG) – if nerve injury is suspected

5. Treatments

Treatment depends on how severe the condition is and how much it affects daily life.

Conservative (non-surgical) care:

• Medications: acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or prescription drugs for pain and inflammation

• Physical therapy: strengthening, stretching, posture training

• Activity modification: avoiding prolonged standing or walking if painful

• Heat or cold therapy

Interventional treatments:

• Epidural steroid injections to reduce inflammation and nerve pain

Surgical options:

• Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) – procedures like minimally invasive laminectomy or laminotomy relieve nerve pressure through small incisions. MISS often means less blood loss, less muscle damage, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

• Open surgery (when needed) – such as decompression surgery or spinal fusion if instability is present