How Do You Know if You Have Spinal Stenosis?

The gradual narrowing of spaces within your spine can lead to pressure on nerves traveling through these passageways, creating a sometimes confusing array of symptoms that vary widely depending on which spinal region is affected. Spinal stenosis often develops slowly, with subtle signs that may be mistaken for normal aging or other conditions, making early recognition crucial for effective treatment and pain management.

At Oasis Medical Group, we provide comprehensive care for patients experiencing spinal stenosis symptoms. Our team of spine specialists offers accurate diagnosis and individualized treatment plans designed to relieve pain and improve mobility. With multiple locations across Northern New Jersey, we’re committed to helping restore your quality of life using the latest evidence-based approaches to spine care.

Understanding Spinal Stenosis and Its Causes

Spinal stenosis occurs when the spaces within your spine narrow, putting pressure on the nerves traveling through the spinal canal. This narrowing typically develops gradually due to various underlying factors.

The most common cause of spinal stenosis is osteoarthritis, which leads to wear and tear on the spine’s cartilage. As we age, the discs between vertebrae may begin to dry out and bulge, while ligaments can thicken and bone spurs may form. All these changes can contribute to the narrowing of the spinal canal.

Other potential causes of spinal stenosis include:

Herniated discs that press against spinal nerves
Spinal injuries from trauma or accidents
Spinal tumors, creating abnormal growth of tissue
Certain genetic conditions affecting bone and muscle development

Understanding the underlying cause of your spinal stenosis is essential for creating an effective treatment plan tailored to your specific condition.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis

The symptoms of spinal stenosis vary depending on which part of your spine is affected and how severe the narrowing has become. For many people, symptoms develop slowly over time and may worsen gradually.

Cervical Stenosis (Neck)

When stenosis occurs in your neck, it may cause:

Neck pain that may radiate to your arms or hands
Numbness or tingling in arms, hands, or fingers
Weakness in arms, hands, or legs
Problems with balance and coordination
In severe cases, difficulty walking or controlling bladder and bowel functions

These cervical symptoms often impact daily activities and can significantly affect your ability to perform routine tasks requiring arm and hand coordination.

Lumbar Stenosis (Lower Back)

Stenosis in your lower back often results in:

Lower back pain
Numbness or tingling inthe legs or feet
Weakness in legs or feet
Pain or cramping in the legs when standing for long periods or when walking

One particularly telling sign of lumbar spinal stenosis is experiencing relief when sitting down or leaning forward, as these positions create more space in the spinal canal and reduce pressure on nerves.

When to See a Doctor

If you’re experiencing persistent back or neck pain, especially when accompanied by numbness, weakness, or other nerve-related symptoms, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. Seeking medical attention is particularly urgent if you experience:

Severe pain that doesn’t improve with rest
Numbness or tingling that worsens over time
Muscle weakness that affects your ability to function
Loss of bladder or bowel control

Early diagnosis allows for more treatment options and better outcomes. At Oasis Medical Group, our specialists can provide a thorough evaluation to determine if spinal stenosis is causing your symptoms.

Diagnosis of Spinal Stenosis

Diagnosing spinal stenosis typically involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and imaging tests.

During your appointment, your doctor will discuss your symptoms and medical history, followed by a physical examination to check for limitations in movement, pain response, reflexes, muscle strength, and other signs of neurological problems.

To confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of stenosis, your doctor may order imaging tests such as:

X-rays to show changes in bone structure
MRI scans to reveal detailed images of your spine, including nerves and soft tissue
CT scans that provide cross-sectional images of your spine
Myelograms to highlight the spinal cord and nerves more clearly

These diagnostic tools help our specialists at Oasis Medical Group develop a precise understanding of your condition, which guides our approach to treatment.

Treatment Options for Spinal Stenosis

Treatment for spinal stenosis aims to relieve pain, improve mobility, and prevent further neurological damage. The approach depends on the severity of your symptoms and the location of the stenosis.

For mild to moderate cases, conservative treatments may include:

Physical therapy to strengthen the back and abdominal muscles
Medications to reduce inflammation and manage pain
Steroid injections to reduce inflammation around compressed nerves
Lifestyle modifications to improve overall spine health

For patients with severe symptoms or those who don’t respond to conservative treatments, surgical options may be considered. These might include:

Decompression procedures to remove portions of bone or tissue pressing on nerves
Spinal fusion to stabilize the spine
Minimally invasive techniques that offer shorter recovery times

At Oasis Medical Group, we offer a full spectrum of treatment options for spinal stenosis. Our approach emphasizes starting with the least invasive treatments whenever possible while ensuring you have access to advanced surgical options when necessary.

Get Expert Care for Your Spine

Living with spinal stenosis symptoms doesn’t have to be your new normal. With proper diagnosis and treatment, many patients experience significant relief and improved quality of life. Oasis Medical Group’s team of spine specialists brings decades of combined experience in treating complex spine conditions, including all forms of spinal stenosis.

Our patient-centered approach means we work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your unique symptoms and goals. From our state-of-the-art facilities to our compassionate care team, we’re dedicated to helping you return to the activities you enjoy. For personalized care from Northern New Jersey’s leading spine specialists, call us at 844-366-8800 or schedule your consultation through our contact form.