Lumbar Stenosis

Lumbar spinal stenosis is a disease where the spinal canal narrows, compressing the nerves that run through the lower back and legs. This condition is most commonly seen in older adults, typically those over the age of 60, as it is a degenerative condition. The narrowing of the spinal canal happens gradually over years or even decades as the discs lose their sponginess and height, and bulges or bone spurs may develop. This can lead to a silent condition, with symptoms arising only from inflammation and compression of the nerves.

The condition can also be caused by trauma, infections, spinal surgeries, metabolic disorders, or even present from birth (congenital spinal stenosis).

Symptoms of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Most symptoms of Lumbar Stenosis are tolerable to an extent yet essential to treat appropriately. Symptoms include:

• Cramping in the calves while walking or needing frequent short intervals to walk a small distance
• Pain, numbness, or weakness in legs, calves, buttocks
• Loss of motor functioning of the limbs
• Disturbed bowel and bladder function, a less common sign 
• Pain flowing to one or both thighs and legs, similar to the pain of sciatica 
• Pain that improves when you bend, sit, or lie down 

Prevention and Treatments

If left untreated, lumbar spinal stenosis leads to severe complications. Once the condition is diagnosed, it should be given immediate attention. When lumbar stenosis puts pressure on the spinal cord, it tends to give rise to many other problems if not taken care of on time. 

At Monarch Pain Management, we provide a variety of treatment options for lumbar stenosis, including:

• Physical therapy. We also recommend that patients exercise regularly, which can help  improve the pain and strengthen the muscles to support the spine and increase flexibility
• Oral medications such as NSAIDs to reduce inflammation and pain
• Steroid injections
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy

For more severe cases, surgical options such as laminectomy, laminotomy, laminoplasty, foraminotomy, interspinous spacers, and spinal fusion may be necessary and should be performed by an experienced spine surgeon. Dr. Przybysz works with you and other healthcare providers to tailor your pain treatment to your needs and the severity of the condition.

End Back Pain Today

We know experiencing back pain can be debilitating and keep you from doing work and the activities you enjoy.  Dr. Przybysz at Monarch Pain Management can help get you back on your feet.

Connect with us now to book an appointment and begin reclaiming your life with less pain.