How is lumbar spinal stenosis treated?

Once lumbar spinal stenosis has a name, the natural next question is what comes after it. Treatment is easier to discuss when you arrive with your history and your goals in order.

Starting with nonsurgical options

OrthoInfo (AAOS) says nonsurgical treatment options focus on restoring function and relieving pain. It also notes that although nonsurgical methods do not improve the narrowing of the spinal canal, many people report that these treatments do help relieve symptoms.

Choosing among treatment options

Categories of care are only a starting list. Which option fits your symptoms, your history and your goals is decided with a clinician after an exam, and it can change over time.

Steps to take before your appointment

1. Describe your low back and leg symptoms in writing, with the activities that bring them on.
2. List what you have already tried and what happened.
3. Write what you hope to do again, such as walking a set distance.
4. Skim the MedlinePlus spinal stenosis page and the NIAMS back pain page for terms you will hear.
5. Check the MedlinePlus pain page and the American Academy of Pain Medicine site for wider context.
6. Ask your clinician what the options are, in what order they are usually considered, and how you will both tell if one is working.

Bringing your goals to the visit

Goals you can name make a treatment conversation concrete. If you live near Bloomfield, we suggest bringing them with your notes. Sudden weakness or loss of bladder or bowel control needs emergency care.