Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis can cause pain, numbness, weakness, and difficulty walking due to narrowing around the spinal cord or spinal nerves.
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.
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
Seek urgent medical attention if you experience:
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Progressive weakness in an arm or leg
- Significant deterioration in walking ability
- Rapid worsening of balance or coordination
These symptoms may indicate severe nerve or spinal cord compression requiring urgent assessment.
For emergencies, call 000 or attend your nearest Emergency Department.
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 is based on your symptoms, examination findings, imaging, and how the condition affects your day-to-day 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 considered when symptoms significantly affect quality of life or when neurological deficits develop.
Procedures may include:
- Laminotomy (lumbar decompression surgery)
- Foraminotomy (cervical decompression surgery)
Related Services
Our multidisciplinary team can support assessment, treatment, rehabilitation, and surgical 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.
