Spinal Stenosis: Causes, Symptoms & Physiotherapy Treatment
What is Spinal Stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is a medical condition characterized by the narrowing of spaces within the spine, which can put pressure on the nerves that travel through the spine. This condition commonly occurs in the lower back (lumbar spine) and the neck (cervical spine).
Types of Spinal Stenosis
- Cervical Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing in the neck region.
- Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing in the lower back, the most common form.
Causes of Spinal Stenosis
- Herniated Discs
- Overgrowth of Bone (Osteoarthritis)
- Thickened Ligaments
- Spinal Injuries
- Congenital Spinal Stenosis
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the location of the stenosis:
- Neck pain or lower back pain
- Numbness or tingling in arms, hands, legs or feet
- Muscle weakness
- Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
- In severe cases, problems with bladder or bowel control
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually made using a combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans.
Conservative Treatment Options
- Physical Therapy
- Medications (NSAIDs, muscle relaxants)
- Epidural Steroid Injections
- Heat and Ice Therapy
- Activity modification
Role of Physiotherapy in Spinal Stenosis
Physiotherapy is a cornerstone of conservative management. It helps:
- Improve spinal flexibility and strength
- Reduce nerve compression
- Enhance posture
- Improve walking tolerance and balance
- Educate on proper body mechanics
Recovery and Prognosis
With consistent physiotherapy and lifestyle modifications, many individuals experience symptom relief and improved function. Surgery may be considered in cases where conservative treatment fails.
FAQs about Spinal Stenosis
The most common cause is age-related wear and tear, such as osteoarthritis.
It can be managed effectively with physiotherapy and lifestyle changes, though the anatomical changes may be permanent.
Yes, many people find relief with non-surgical treatments including physiotherapy, medications, and injections.
Core strengthening, lumbar flexion, and gentle stretches are beneficial.
Yes, moderate walking is helpful in maintaining mobility and reducing symptoms.
Loss of bladder/bowel control, severe weakness, and unsteady gait are serious signs.
Through physical examination, patient history, and imaging studies like MRI.
Yes, poor posture can worsen symptoms; physiotherapists focus on posture correction.
In some cases, a narrow spinal canal can be inherited.
Yes, weight loss reduces strain on the spine and alleviates symptoms.
Exercise, posture correction, weight control, and avoiding prolonged standing/sitting.
Yes, if not managed properly, it can progress and lead to more severe symptoms.
Sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees often helps reduce pain.
Improvement may be noticed in 4–6 weeks with consistent therapy sessions.
When conservative treatments fail, or if there is significant nerve compression causing disability.