Spinal Stenosis Treatment in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa

Spinal stenosis occurs when the spaces within the spine narrow, putting pressure on the spinal cord and surrounding nerves. This condition can lead to chronic pain, numbness, and difficulty walking or standing for long periods. While it can affect any part of the spine, it most commonly develops in the cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) regions.

If you are experiencing back pain or neurological symptoms, a pain doctor at The Pain Experts of Arizona can help. We provide advanced spinal stenosis diagnosis and treatment at our pain clinic locations in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa.

Understanding Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis can develop gradually as a result of the aging process and degenerative changes in the spine. In some cases, it may result from an injury, herniated disc, or other medical condition. The narrowing of the spinal canal can compress nerves, causing pain, weakness, and reduced mobility.

Types of spinal stenosis include:

• Cervical stenosis: narrowing in the neck area

• Lumbar stenosis: narrowing in the lower back

• Thoracic stenosis: narrowing in the mid-back

• Foraminal stenosis: affects the small openings where nerve roots exit the spine

• Lateral recess stenosis: occurs where nerves branch out at the back of the spinal canal

• Central canal stenosis: involves the main spinal canal

Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis

Symptoms vary depending on the location and severity of the narrowing. Common signs include:

Cervical spinal stenosis

• Numbness or tingling in the hands, arms, feet, or legs

• Weakness in the extremities

• Neck pain

• Problems with balance or coordination

• Difficulty with fine motor skills, such as writing or buttoning clothes

Lumbar spinal stenosis

• Lower back pain

• Sciatica

• Numbness or tingling in the legs or feet

• Weakness in the legs or feet

• Heavy feeling in the legs

• Difficulty standing or walking for long periods

In severe cases, spinal stenosis can cause bowel or bladder dysfunction and sexual dysfunction, requiring immediate medical attention.

Diagnosing Spinal Stenosis

Your pain specialist will begin with a thorough review of your medical history, lifestyle habits, and family history of spinal disorders. During the physical exam, they will assess your range of motion, muscle strength, reflexes, balance, and walking ability.

Diagnostic tests may include:

• X-rays

• MRI or CT scans

• Myelogram

• Blood tests

• Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies

At The Pain Experts of Arizona, we provide comprehensive evaluations to accurately diagnose spinal stenosis and rule out other potential causes of your symptoms.

Treatment Options

Treatment focuses on relieving pressure on the nerves, reducing pain, and improving function. Depending on the severity of your condition, our pain clinic may recommend:

• Physical therapy: Strengthening muscles, improving flexibility, and enhancing mobility

• Medications: NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, or nerve pain medications

• Epidural steroid injections: Reducing inflammation and relieving nerve pain

• Lifestyle modifications: Weight management, posture improvement, and regular low-impact exercise

• Assistive devices: Canes or walkers to aid mobility and reduce spinal pressure

• Surgery: In cases where conservative treatments are ineffective, procedures such as decompressive laminectomy or spinal fusion may be considered

Our multidisciplinary team develops personalized treatment plans for patients in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Causes and Risk Factors

Spinal stenosis can result from a variety of factors, including:

• Herniated or bulging discs

• Osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease

• Thickened spinal ligaments

• Bone spurs

• Paget’s disease

• Genetic predisposition (born with a smaller spinal canal)

• Injuries or trauma to the spine

• Tumors or spinal cysts

Risk factors include aging, family history, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and a history of spinal injuries.

Quick Facts

• Spinal stenosis is most common in adults over age 50.

• Maintaining flexibility and strength in the hips and hamstrings can help manage symptoms.

• Early diagnosis and intervention can prevent permanent nerve damage and mobility loss.

Take the Next Step Toward Relief

If you are living with back pain, numbness, or mobility difficulties, The Pain Experts of Arizona can help. Our experienced pain doctors in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa provide advanced, compassionate care to diagnose and treat spinal stenosis. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and begin your journey toward pain relief and improved function.

Call us today at 480-950-9393 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward feeling better.

The Pain Experts of Arizona – Your Partners in Pain Relief and Recovery.

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