Spinal Stenosis Treatment in Middle Tennessee
Care for Pain, Numbness, and Limited Mobility
Back or neck pain that makes it difficult to walk, stand, or stay active may be related to spinal stenosis. This condition develops when spaces within the spine become narrower, which can put pressure on the spinal cord or nearby nerves. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to pain, numbness, or weakness that interferes with everyday life.
Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance (TOA) provides evaluation and treatment for patients experiencing back pain related to spinal stenosis throughout Middle Tennessee. Our spine specialists work with each patient to identify the cause of their symptoms and develop a treatment plan based on their specific needs.
What Is Spinal Stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of one or more spaces within the spine. It most commonly affects the lower back, known as lumbar spinal stenosis, or the neck, known as cervical spinal stenosis.
The condition is often related to changes that occur in the spine over time. Arthritis, bone spurs, thickened ligaments, and changes to the spinal discs can all reduce the amount of space available for nerves.
Possible symptoms include:
- Pain or aching in the lower back or neck
- Numbness or tingling in the arms, hands, legs, or feet
- Weakness in an arm or leg
- Leg pain or heaviness when standing or walking
- Symptoms that improve when sitting or leaning forward
- Difficulty walking for longer periods
Symptoms vary depending on the location and severity of the narrowing, making a professional evaluation important.
Treatment Options for Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis treatment is based on how the condition affects your comfort, mobility, and daily activities. An evaluation may include a physical examination and imaging to better understand changes within the spine.
Nonsurgical care is often considered first. Treatment may involve physical therapy, medications, activity adjustments, or injections to help manage symptoms and improve function. Physical therapy may also focus on strength, flexibility, posture, and movement.
When symptoms remain severe despite conservative care or nerve compression is causing significant problems, surgery may be considered. Your TOA spine specialist can explain the available options and help determine an appropriate next step.
Spinal Stenosis Treatment in Middle Tennessee
If spinal stenosis is making it harder to stay active, Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance can help you better understand your condition and treatment choices. Schedule an appointment with a TOA spine specialist in Middle Tennessee to get started.
Our Spine Specialists
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes spinal stenosis?
Spinal stenosis often develops because of age-related changes in the spine. Arthritis, bone spurs, changes in spinal discs, and thickened ligaments can contribute to narrowing around the spinal cord or nerves. Other spinal conditions may also play a role.
Is spinal stenosis a form of arthritis?
Spinal stenosis itself is not arthritis, but arthritis can contribute to it. Wear-and-tear changes in spinal joints may cause bone spurs or other changes that reduce space within the spinal canal.
Why does spinal stenosis sometimes hurt more when walking?
Lumbar spinal stenosis can cause symptoms that become more noticeable while standing or walking. Some people find that sitting or leaning forward reduces their discomfort because these positions may create more room around affected nerves.
Can physical therapy help with spinal stenosis?
Physical therapy may be part of a nonsurgical treatment plan. Exercises can focus on improving strength, flexibility, balance, posture, and movement while helping patients find ways to stay active without unnecessarily aggravating symptoms.
Will I need surgery for spinal stenosis?
Not everyone with spinal stenosis needs surgery. Many patients begin with conservative treatment. Surgery may be discussed when symptoms are severe, continue despite nonsurgical care, or significantly affect nerve function and daily activities.
When should spinal stenosis be evaluated?
Consider seeing a spine specialist when ongoing back or neck pain is accompanied by numbness, tingling, weakness, difficulty walking, or pain that regularly limits your activities. A proper diagnosis can determine whether spinal stenosis is causing your symptoms.
