Spinal Stenosis

What is spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is something someone is born with (congenital) or, more commonly, is acquired over time due to degenerative changes of the spine. This most commonly occurs in the lumbar spine (low back), commonly followed by the cervical spine (neck). Spinal stenosis typically becomes symptomatic in individuals in their 50s and beyond. Patients with congenital spinal stenosis often have both cervical and lumbar stenosis, which typically become symptomatic much earlier in life.

Quick Links

Types of Spinal Stenosis

Because the condition can occur at different locations within the spine, it is classified based on the area affected. Cervical stenosis is when the narrowing occurs in the neck area of your spine, while lumbar stenosis is when the narrowing occurs in the lower part of your back. Lumbar stenosis is cited as the most common form.

A doctor explains a human spine model to a patient in an office. The doctor points to the model, while the patient listens. Medical documents and a tablet lie on the desk.

Conditions That Typically Accelerate or Worsen Spinal Stenosis

  • Herniated discs
  • Thickened or overgrown spinal ligaments
  • Thickened or overgrown bony spinal elements
  • Degenerative cysts that compress spinal nerves

Signs and Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis

Based on the location of stenosis, the symptoms may either be non-existent, or range in severity. The most common signs and symptoms include:
  • Leg heaviness, fatigue, or trouble walking distances
  • Forward-flexed posture while walking
  • Leaning on a shopping cart to get through the grocery store
  • Numbness, tingling, or nerve pain in the arms and/or legs
  • Balance issues
  • Electrical shocks into the arms and/or legs
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed, it’s important to get checked by Midwest Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Alliance. While the issue may not be spinal stenosis, there may be an underlying cause that requires treatment.

Diagnosis and Treatment

After discussing your symptoms, a physical examination will be conducted to determine the severity and root of the issue. Imaging tests — including X-rays, MRIs, or CTs — may also be ordered to pinpoint the exact location of stenosis and guide your treatment plan.

Treatment plans for severe symptoms may include:

  • Physical therapy
  • Steroid injections
  • Massage therapy and acupuncture
  • Chiropractic treatment
  • Surgery (such as laminectomy, laminotomy, discectomy, laminoplasty, possible spinal fusion with instrumentation)

Make sure to consult with Midwest Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Alliance for treatment options.

Spinal stenosis treatment in Southeastern Wisconsin

If you are experiencing symptoms of spinal stenosis, or have questions about your spine health, contact Midwest Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Alliance today at 414-384-6700 to schedule an appointment.

Our Specialists
Locations
Request an Appointment