Spinal Stenosis Specialist in American Pain and Wellness

Spinal stenosis occurs when the spaces within your spine narrow, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This condition can lead to back pain, leg pain, numbness, and weakness, impacting daily activities and overall quality of life.

At American Pain & Wellness, we offer comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plans to relieve symptoms, improve function, and enhance mobility.

Understanding Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is most common in the lower back (lumbar spine) and neck (cervical spine). It can develop gradually due to aging or as a result of injury, degeneration, or congenital conditions. Key contributing factors include:

• Degenerative changes — such as osteoarthritis or disc degeneration causing bone spurs or joint enlargement (mayoclinic.org)
• Herniated or bulging discs — compressing nerve roots
• Thickened ligaments — which can narrow spinal canals
• Spinal injuries or fractures — leading to structural changes and compression
• Congenital spinal conditions — naturally narrow spinal canals present from birth

The narrowing of the spinal canal can irritate nerves, leading to pain, numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness.

Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis

Symptoms vary depending on the location and severity of nerve compression, and may include:

• Pain in the lower back, neck, or radiating down the legs or arms
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms, hands, legs, or feet
• Difficulty walking, standing, or maintaining balance
• Cramping or fatigue in the legs, particularly when walking or standing for long periods (mayoclinic.org)

Early evaluation is crucial, especially if neurological symptoms or functional limitations are present.

How We Diagnose Spinal Stenosis

At American Pain & Wellness, we provide a thorough diagnostic approach:

• Review of medical history, symptoms, and prior treatments
• Physical examination focusing on posture, strength, reflexes, and range of motion
• Imaging studies, including X-rays, MRI, or CT scans, to identify spinal canal narrowing and nerve compression (mayoclinic.org)
• Electromyography (EMG) or nerve conduction studies when indicated to evaluate nerve function

Accurate diagnosis is essential to determine the most effective treatment strategy.

Treatment Options

Treatment for spinal stenosis is tailored to each patient, considering symptom severity, spinal location, and overall health.

Conservative Care

• Physical therapy — to strengthen supporting muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance mobility
• Activity modification — guidance on proper posture, ergonomics, and movement strategies
• Medications — anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers, or muscle relaxants to manage symptoms (mayoclinic.org)

Interventional Treatments

• Epidural steroid injections or nerve blocks to reduce inflammation and relieve nerve-related pain
• Minimally invasive procedures — in select cases, to relieve pressure on compressed nerves

Surgical Options

• Surgery may be considered for patients with severe, persistent symptoms or significant nerve compression
• Common procedures include laminectomy or spinal fusion to decompress nerves and stabilize the spine (mayoclinic.org)

Recovery and Long-Term Management

• Many patients experience significant symptom relief with a combination of conservative and interventional treatments
• Long-term success often involves physical therapy, activity modification, and ongoing monitoring of spinal health
• Maintaining strength, flexibility, and proper posture can help prevent symptom recurrence

Why Choose American Pain & Wellness

• Personalized evaluation and treatment plans for spinal stenosis
• Access to both non-surgical and interventional therapies tailored to each patient
• Multidisciplinary approach to restore function, reduce pain, and improve quality of life
• Comprehensive follow-up care and support to maintain spinal health

If you are experiencing back or neck pain, numbness, or weakness due to spinal stenosis, schedule a consultation at American Pain & Wellness. Our team will develop a customized plan to relieve pain, improve mobility, and enhance your quality of life.