Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spaces around the spinal nerves or spinal cord. It most commonly affects the neck or lower back and may cause pain, numbness, weakness, balance problems or difficulty walking.
Understanding the condition
What is Spinal Stenosis?
Spinal stenosis refers to narrowing of the spinal canal or the openings where nerves exit the spine. This narrowing can place pressure on the spinal cord or spinal nerves.
It most commonly develops as part of the natural ageing process. Age-related changes such as arthritis, thickened ligaments, disc bulging, and bone spurs can reduce the space available for nerves. Symptoms may develop gradually and often vary depending on whether the narrowing affects the neck or lower back.
Lumbar spinal stenosis (lower back) commonly causes pain, heaviness, numbness or weakness in the legs, particularly when walking.
Cervical spinal stenosis (neck) commonly causes pain, numbness or weakness in the arms. Spinal cord compression can affect hand function, balance and walking.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of Spinal Stenosis
Hover your cursor over a symptom above to learn more.
Back or Neck Pain
Arm or Leg Pain
Numbness
Tingling
Weakness
Difficulty Walking
Balance Problems
When to Seek Urgent Care
Know the Warning Signs
Most spinal stenosis develops gradually and is not an emergency. However, severe compression of the nerves or spinal cord can occasionally cause serious neurological problems.
Seek urgent medical attention if you experience:
- Loss of bladder or bowel control.
- Numbness around the genitals, anus and perineum (saddle numbness).
- Progressive weakness in an arm or leg.
- Significant deterioration in walking ability.
- Significant deterioration in balance or coordination.
For emergencies, call 000 or attend your nearest Emergency Department.
Patient Education
Why do my legs hurt when I walk?
Spinal stenosis can cause pain, heaviness or weakness when walking. Watch this short explanation from Rehab Companion.
Assessment & Imaging
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis begins with a detailed history and examination. MRI or CT scans are commonly used to identify areas of narrowing and determine whether nerves or the spinal cord are being compressed.
Treatment
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the location and severity of stenosis, the symptoms it causes, neurological findings, imaging and how it affects your daily life.
Many patients achieve good symptom control without surgery.
Treatment may include:
- Physiotherapy
- Exercise physiology
- Activity modification
- Pain-relieving medication
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Image-guided spinal injections
Surgery may be recommended when spinal stenosis causes significant nerve compression, persistent disabling symptoms or neurological deterioration.
Procedures may include:
- Laminotomy (lumbar decompression surgery)
- Foraminotomy (cervical decompression surgery)
Related Services
Our multidisciplinary team provides assessment, non-surgical treatment, rehabilitation and neurosurgical care where appropriate.
Concerned About Spinal Stenosis?
Our multidisciplinary team provides comprehensive assessment and treatment for patients experiencing spinal stenosis, nerve compression, and mobility limitations.
