Lumbar Stenosis

Lumbar stenosis is one of the leading causes of lower back pain in people aged 60 and older. If you experience chronic low back pain that interferes with your mobility or daily routine, seek treatment. At Pain Medicine of the South in Knoxville, Tennessee, the team of interventional pain management specialists provides complete care for lumbar stenosis. To learn more about treatment for lumbar stenosis, make an appointment by calling the office or booking online today.

What is lumbar stenosis?

Lumbar stenosis occurs because of age-related changes to your spinal canal. As you age, the space around your spine shrinks, placing excess pressure on your nerves and vertebral discs.

Lumbar stenosis refers to a narrowing of the spinal canal in your lower back. At first, you might experience mild symptoms like tingling or numbness. But as the condition worsens, it can affect your mobility and quality of life. 

What are the symptoms of lumbar stenosis?

Symptoms of lumbar stenosis include:

• Low back pain
• Cramping in your thighs or legs
• Difficulty standing and walking
• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations

If you experience these or other similar symptoms, and they don’t improve with rest or other at-home treatments, contact Pain Management of the South immediately.

What causes lumbar stenosis?

Almost everyone experiences spine changes because of the natural aging process, but there are several factors that increase your risk of spinal stenosis, including:

• Bone spurs
• Herniated discs
• Tumors
• Spinal injuries

You’re also more likely to develop lumbar stenosis if you have abnormally thick ligaments. Ligaments are tough bands of tissue that hold the bones of your spine together.

How is lumbar stenosis diagnosed?

To diagnose lumbar stenosis, your Pain Medicine of the South provider reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms, including when the back pain started and if it’s worse when you try to stand or walk.

Next, your provider completes a physical exam. They look at your back and spine for redness, bruising, or swelling and press on your lower back to identify sensitive areas. Your provider also orders diagnostic imaging like X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI to get a closer look at your vertebrae, vertebral discs, and the surrounding tissues.

How is lumbar stenosis treated?

Treatment of lumbar stenosis depends on several things, including your age and the severity of your symptoms. The team at Pain Medicine of the South might recommend:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Antidepressants
• Anti-seizure drugs
• Opioids
• Physical therapy
• Steroid shots

If these treatments don’t provide lasting relief or your symptoms worsen, surgery might be necessary. The team regularly performs traditional open surgery and minimally invasive spine surgery.

To receive treatment for lumbar stenosis, make an appointment at Pain Medicine of the South by calling the office or clicking the online booking feature today.