Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a condition that involves narrowing of the spaces within the spine, which can place pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. This may lead to pain, numbness, or difficulty with walking and standing.
Dr. Joel Ardner provides evaluation and treatment for spinal stenosis with a focus on reducing nerve irritation, improving mobility, and helping patients maintain an active lifestyle.
What Is Spinal Stenosis?
Spinal stenosis occurs when the spinal canal or surrounding openings become narrowed, often due to age-related changes in the spine. This narrowing can affect nearby nerves and contribute to a range of symptoms.
The condition most commonly affects the lower back (lumbar spine), but it can also occur in the neck.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms of spinal stenosis can vary depending on the location and severity.
Common symptoms include:
Pain in the lower back or legs
Numbness or tingling in the legs
Weakness in the lower extremities
Difficulty standing or walking for extended periods
Relief of symptoms when sitting or leaning forward
Many patients notice that symptoms improve when bending forward or sitting, which can reduce pressure on the nerves.
Common Causes
Spinal stenosis is typically associated with gradual changes in the spine.
Common contributing factors include:
Degenerative changes (arthritis of the spine)
Disc degeneration or bulging
Thickening of ligaments
Joint enlargement
Previous injury or trauma
These changes can develop over time and contribute to narrowing of the spinal canal.
What to Expect
Evaluation includes a detailed review of symptoms and a physical examination to assess movement, nerve function, and spinal involvement.
This helps determine whether spinal stenosis may be contributing to your symptoms and guides appropriate treatment.
Treatment for Spinal Stenosis
Treatment focuses on reducing pressure on the affected nerves and improving overall function.
Depending on the condition, care may include:
Flexion-distraction therapy to help open spinal spaces and reduce nerve pressure
Soft tissue treatment to reduce muscle tension
Rehabilitation exercises to improve strength and stability
Activity modification and movement strategies
Care is tailored to the individual based on their symptoms and response to treatment.
Movement and Position Matter
Many patients with spinal stenosis find relief in positions that involve slight forward bending. Treatment may incorporate strategies that take advantage of these positions to help reduce symptoms and improve tolerance for daily activities.
Spinal Stenosis and Sciatica
Spinal stenosis can contribute to nerve-related symptoms similar to sciatica, including pain, numbness, or tingling in the legs.
👉 Learn more about sciatica treatment
When to Seek Evaluation
You should consider scheduling an evaluation if you experience:
Leg pain or weakness with walking
Numbness or tingling in the legs
Difficulty standing for extended periods
Symptoms that improve with sitting or leaning forward
Persistent lower back pain
Early evaluation can help guide treatment and improve function.
About Dr. Joel Ardner
Dr. Joel Ardner provides treatment for spinal conditions using a combination of chiropractic care, flexion-distraction therapy, and rehabilitation strategies. Care is focused on reducing pain, improving movement, and helping patients maintain an active lifestyle.
Patients are seen at Fabrizio Chiropractic & Physical Rehabilitation.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to spinal stenosis, an evaluation may help determine the cause and guide appropriate treatment.