Spinal stenosis is a condition in which the spaces within the spine narrow, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain, numbness, weakness, and sometimes even loss of function. The condition often affects older adults and can occur in various parts of the spine, including the neck (cervical stenosis) or lower back (lumbar stenosis). Orthopedic Surgeon in Houston, Texas are specialists who treat spinal conditions, including spinal stenosis, with a combination of non-surgical and surgical approaches, depending on the severity of the condition and the individual’s health status.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Orthopedic surgeons typically begin treatment for spinal stenosis with non-surgical methods. These conservative approaches are aimed at relieving symptoms, improving mobility, and preventing further deterioration of the spine.
- Physical Therapy: Physical therapy is often one of the first lines of treatment. It involves exercises designed to improve strength, flexibility, and posture. These exercises help to reduce pressure on the nerves and spinal cord by stabilizing the spine and improving muscle support. In many cases, physical therapy can relieve pain and improve function without the need for surgery.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may be recommended to alleviate pain. For more severe cases, orthopedic surgeons might prescribe stronger medications, including muscle relaxants, nerve pain medications, or oral steroids to reduce inflammation and pain. In some instances, a surgeon might recommend epidural steroid injections to deliver anti-inflammatory medication directly to the area around the spine.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Orthopedic surgeons may advise patients to make lifestyle changes, such as weight management or using assistive devices like braces or canes. Weight loss can help reduce pressure on the spine, while a brace can provide additional support and stability to the affected area.
- Alternative Therapies: In some cases, alternative therapies like acupuncture or chiropractic care may be suggested. These treatments aim to reduce pain and promote mobility by targeting the muscles and joints surrounding the spine.
Surgical Treatment Options
When conservative treatments fail to relieve symptoms, or if the stenosis is causing significant neurological damage, orthopedic surgeons may recommend surgery. The decision to proceed with surgery depends on several factors, including the severity of the stenosis, the patient’s overall health, and the presence of symptoms like severe pain or nerve dysfunction.
- Laminectomy: One of the most common surgical treatments for spinal stenosis is laminectomy. This procedure involves the removal of part of the vertebra, called the lamina, to create more space for the spinal cord and nerves. By removing the bone spurs and thickened ligaments that are causing pressure, a laminectomy can alleviate pain and improve function.
- Spinal Fusion: In cases where the vertebrae have become unstable due to the narrowing of the spinal canal, orthopedic surgeons may perform a spinal fusion. This procedure involves joining two or more vertebrae together using bone grafts or metal hardware, such as screws or rods, to stabilize the spine. Fusion may be performed in combination with a laminectomy to address both stenosis and spinal instability.
- Decompression Surgery: For some patients, a surgeon may recommend decompression surgery, which involves removing tissue or bone that is pressing on the spinal nerves. This procedure may include techniques such as a foraminotomy, which widens the openings where nerve roots exit the spine, or a discectomy, which removes part of a damaged disc.
- Minimally Invasive Surgery: Advances in surgical techniques have led to the development of minimally invasive procedures for spinal stenosis. These surgeries use small incisions and specialized instruments to access the spine, which can result in less pain, faster recovery, and a lower risk of complications compared to traditional open surgery.
Orthopedic surgeons play a key role in diagnosing and treating spinal stenosis. While non-surgical treatments can effectively manage many cases, surgery may be necessary when conservative methods fail or when the condition threatens to cause permanent nerve damage. The goal of treatment is always to alleviate pain, improve function, and enhance the quality of life for patients suffering from this condition. Through a combination of physical therapy, medications, and, when necessary, surgical interventions, orthopedic surgeons can help patients regain mobility and reduce the impact of spinal stenosis.
Eric F Berkman MD – Top Rated Orthopedic Surgeon in Houston, Texas. Specializing in treating various orthopedic conditions of shoulder, elbow, knee, hand, and foot and ankle. Orthopedic injuries are common in motor vehicle accidents, sports and in daily activities. He offers a comprehensive and high quality medical care for his patients. Dr Berkman offers the best possible treatment and utmost care to each individual to restore freedom of movement and relieve the pain of diseased and degenerative joints.