Doctor evaluating patient symptoms for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis diagnosis at Mountain Spine & Orthopedics
Condition/Condition Details

Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Expert Care for Narrowing of the Lower Spinal Canal

Experiencing Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Pain?

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What is Lumbar Spinal Stenosis?

As the canal narrows, it can cause neurogenic claudication—leg pain that worsens with activity. At Mountain Spine & Orthopedics, we specialize in identifying the degree of narrowing and restoring your ability to walk comfortably.

Symptoms to Look For of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Typical symptoms of lumbar stenosis include:

  • Pain, cramping, or heaviness in the legs while walking
  • Lower back pain that improves when sitting or leaning forward
  • Numbness or tingling in the buttocks and legs
  • Difficulty standing for extended periods
  • Improved comfort when leaning over a shopping cart
Cross-section showing narrowing of the lumbar spinal canal

How it Develops of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Primary causes include osteoarthritis, bone spurs, and thickening of the spinal ligaments. Degenerative disc disease and previous spinal surgery can also contribute to the narrowing.

Stabilization and Pain Management for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Many patients find significant relief through non-operative strategies.
  • Physical therapy for core and lumbar flexibility
  • Epidural steroid injections for nerve inflammation
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Activity modification and ergonomic training
  • Lumbar support or bracing

Minimally Invasive Decompression for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

For severe stenosis, a laminectomy can widen the canal and provide immediate relief from leg symptoms and walking limitations.
Learn More About Lumbar Laminectomy Surgery

Related Treatments & Conditions

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Schedule a Consultation Today for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Locations Offering Evaluation

Our board-certified specialists offer lumbar spinal stenosis evaluation and treatment at locations across Florida, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Schedule a consultation at a clinic near you.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is lumbar stenosis?

Lumbar stenosis is narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back, compressing nerves. It typically results from age-related degeneration, bone spurs, thickened ligaments, or disc bulging. Symptoms worsen with standing/walking and improve with sitting/bending forward.

What are the symptoms of lumbar stenosis?

Symptoms include leg pain, numbness, or weakness worsening with walking (neurogenic claudication), lower back pain, cramping in the legs, and difficulty walking long distances. Sitting or leaning forward (shopping cart sign) provides relief.

Can lumbar stenosis be treated without surgery?

Yes, many patients improve with physical therapy, epidural steroid injections, activity modification, assistive devices (cane), and pain management. Weight loss reduces spinal stress. Surgery is considered when conservative care fails and symptoms limit quality of life.

What is the best treatment for lumbar stenosis?

Treatment depends on severity. Epidural injections provide temporary relief. Physical therapy strengthens core and improves flexibility. When symptoms significantly limit walking/daily activities despite conservative care, decompression surgery (laminectomy) relieves pressure on nerves.

How is lumbar stenosis diagnosed?

Diagnosis combines clinical history of positional symptoms with imaging. MRI is the gold standard, showing canal narrowing and nerve compression. CT myelography is an alternative if MRI is contraindicated. X-rays assess alignment and bone spurs.