Non-surgical options for treating spinal stenosis pain

Spinal Stenosis causes narrowing of the spinal canal, leading to pain. Learn about the causes, key symptoms, and effective treatments, from exercises to surgery.

6 December, 2025

Are you ignoring persistent back, neck, or leg pain? That discomfort could be a key sign of spinal canal narrowing. Understanding spinal stenosis is the first step toward finding relief and preventing more serious mobility issues.

What are the main causes of Spinal Stenosis?

  • The most common cause is wear-and-tear changes in the spine due to osteoarthritis, where bone spurs can grow into the spinal canal.
  • Herniated discs can bulge into the spinal canal, while thickened ligaments can also reduce the amount of available space for the nerves.
  • Other causes include spinal injuries, tumors, or congenital conditions where an individual is born with a naturally small spinal canal from birth.
An overview of what is spinal stenosis

Key symptoms of Spinal Stenosis to watch for

  • Lumbar spinal stenosis in the lower back often causes pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs and buttocks, which worsens with walking.
  • Cervical spinal stenosis in the neck can cause similar symptoms in the neck, shoulders, and arms, and may also affect balance and coordination.
  • A key indicator of lumbar stenosis is that pain is often relieved by leaning forward or sitting, as this position opens up the spinal canal.

How can you manage Spinal Stenosis effectively?

  • A primary spinal stenosis treatment involves specific exercises for spinal stenosis that strengthen back muscles and improve flexibility, helping to manage symptoms.
  • Non-surgical treatments include physical therapy, medications to reduce pain and inflammation, and epidural steroid injections to relieve pressure on the nerves.
  • If conservative treatments fail, spinal stenosis surgery may be recommended to create more space for the spinal cord and nerves, providing lasting relief.

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The top Spinal Stenosis images everyone is searching for

The difference between a healthy and stenotic spine
A model showing cervical spinal stenosis
Understanding the causes of lumbar spinal stenosis
How a narrowed spinal canal affects nerves
An illustration of spinal stenosis surgery

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Managing spinal stenosis is key to maintaining an active lifestyle. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and to discuss a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

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