Spinal Stenosis (narrowing) is a condition associated with multiple etiological factors, all of which cause the narrowing of one or more bony openings (foramina) within the spine. Stenosis in the spine occurs either within the spinal canal (where the spinal cord runs) or in the intervertebral foramina (IVF), where the spinal nerves exit the spinal canal. The narrowing of these openings can cause pinching of the spinal cord and/or nerve roots, leading to pain, numbness, weakness, and tingling.

Spinal Stenosis can happen in any part of your spine but is most common in the lower back (lumbar spine). Depending on where the Stenosis occurs, you may feel pain in your neck, shoulders, lower back, or legs.

Various conditions can lead to spinal Stenosis, such as degeneration (osteoarthritis), congenital conditions (like achondroplasia), inflammatory or metabolic disorders, or even tumors. The most common cause is osteoarthritis—a gradual “wear and tear” process affecting your joints over time. Most people over the age of 50 begin to experience some level of spinal joint changes due to OA, placing them at greater risk for Stenosis.

Symptoms often develop gradually. Common complaints include back pain, burning pain radiating into the buttocks and legs (sciatica), numbness, tingling, leg cramping, and leg weakness. These symptoms may worsen with walking or prolonged standing and improve with rest or bending forward.

To diagnose spinal Stenosis, your doctor will take a detailed history and perform a physical and neurological examination, including tests for range of motion. Since diagnosis relies on imaging, you may be referred for X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to evaluate spinal canal size and detect any bony encroachment (such as bone spurs).

There are three primary types of spinal Stenosis:

Spinal Stenosis is a leading cause of disability and loss of independence among older adults and the most common reason for spinal surgery in individuals over the age of 65.

Conservative care is the recommended first-line treatment. Your chiropractor will use a range of non-invasive methods, including postural correction, spinal mobilization and manipulation, exercise therapy, muscle release techniques, and possibly decompression therapy.

At Grande Chiropractic, we use evidence-based, patient-centered care methods to manage spinal Stenosis. Our experienced doctors have successfully treated patients with this condition for many years, helping them reduce pain, improve function, and regain independence.

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