Spinal Stenosis Specialist

What is spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is a condition that causes an abnormal narrowing of the spinal canal, which puts pressure on nerve roots and can cause chronic pain and immobility. Spinal stenosis can occur in the lumbar (lower) or the cervical (upper) spine. While some people are born with the condition, it’s more common to develop spinal stenosis with age.

What are the symptoms of spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis doesn’t always produce symptoms. When symptoms do show up, you can experience:

• Numbness or tingling in extremities
• Pain that radiates to different parts of the body
• Problems with balance or coordination
• Weakness in the muscles

Spinal stenosis in the lumbar spine can be extremely painful when trying to walk, while spinal stenosis in the cervical spine can cause pain during upper body movements.

What causes spinal stenosis?

There are several reasons why spinal stenosis can develop. It often occurs as a result of arthritis in the spine, which creates inflammation and pain. Other causes of spinal stenosis include:

• Bone spurs: Caused by conditions like osteoarthritis
• Disk degeneration: Which creates abnormal spinal structure and inflammation
• Injury: Trauma from a car accident, fall, or sports injury

In other cases, spinal stenosis can develop when the ligaments that support spinal vertebrae become thick and stiff. The condition might also develop if you have growths or tumors on or around the spinal cord.

How is spinal stenosis treated?

Dr. Zocca starts with a comprehensive evaluation to determine the cause of your symptoms. She may recommend X-rays or other diagnostic tests to get a clear view of your spinal column. Depending on your symptoms, a treatment plan might include:

• Medication: To address pain or underlying conditions
• Physical therapy: For mobility, pain relief, and long-term spinal health
• Injections: Steroidal treatment to reduce inflammation and swelling

Using a multidisciplinary approach, Dr. Zocca coordinates your treatment plan so you have access to the most up-to-date procedures and therapies available. With an emphasis on comprehensive care, you can heal from spinal stenosis without the need for surgery or other invasive methods.

To book a consultation to discuss your needs, call Maiden Lane Medical today or make an appointment using the one-click booking tool.