Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis

The symptoms of spinal stenosis can vary depending on the location and severity of the nerve compression. Common symptoms include:

  • Persistent back or neck pain
  • Numbness or tingling in the arms, legs, or buttocks
  • Weakness in the extremities
  • Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
  • Cramping in the legs when standing or walking
  • Reduced sensation in the affected areas

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, the team at California Neurosurgical Institute is here to help you find the right solution.

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Conservative Treatment Options

At California Neurosurgical Institute, we believe in starting with the least invasive treatment options. Our team may prescribe a range of conservative therapies designed to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance your overall well-being. These initial treatments may include:

  • Physical Therapy: Customized exercise programs that focus on strengthening the muscles supporting the spine and improving flexibility.
  • Stretching Exercises: Gentle stretches to relieve tension and increase mobility.
  • Massage Therapy: Targeted massage techniques to reduce muscle tightness and alleviate pain.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Medications to help manage pain and reduce inflammation around the affected nerves.
  • Steroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections can help reduce inflammation and temporarily relieve pain.

Most patients respond well to these non-surgical treatments.

When Surgery is Needed

If conservative measures do not provide adequate relief, surgery may be recommended. At California Neurosurgical Institute, we specialize in advanced, minimally invasive surgical procedures to treat spinal stenosis, always prioritizing your comfort and safety. Our skilled neurosurgeons will carefully explain your options and guide you through the decision-making process. Surgical treatments for spinal stenosis at California Neurosurgical Institute include:

  • Laminectomy: This procedure involves removing part or all of the lamina (a section of the vertebrae) to create more space within the spinal canal, alleviating pressure on the spinal nerves.
  • Laminotomy: A less extensive procedure than a laminectomy, a laminotomy involves removing only a small portion of the lamina, targeting the exact area where nerve compression occurs.
  • Foraminotomy: This procedure widens the foramina, the small openings where nerve roots exit the spinal canal, relieving pressure and reducing symptoms.
  • Medial Facetectomy: This surgery involves removing part of the facet joint, where one vertebra connects to the next, to create more space for the nerves.
  • Spinal Fusion: In cases where spinal stability is a concern, spinal fusion may be performed alongside decompression procedures. This involves joining two or more vertebrae, using bone grafts and instrumentation to provide stability and prevent movement that could cause further pain or injury.
  • Instrumented Fusion: The use of rods, screws, and other devices to provide immediate stability to the spine following decompression surgery.
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Compassionate Care on Your Path to Wellness

At California Neurosurgical Institute, we recognize that spinal stenosis can be a source of significant discomfort and limitation, especially for older adults. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing cutting-edge surgical solutions and the compassionate, personalized care you deserve. We take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and guide you through every step on your path to wellness. Our goal is to help you regain your mobility, reduce your pain, and improve your quality of life so you can continue to enjoy the activities and experiences that matter most to you.

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