Non-surgical management of lumbar stenosis

Non-surgical conservative management of lumbar stenosis is often effective at improving symptoms, though it will not address the underlying anatomic structures pressing on the nerve roots. Conservative management is aimed at decreasing pain and inflammation around the spinal cord and nerve roots, improving physical functioning, and preventing further injury. Conservative management includes:

• A structured and supervised exercise program including stretching and strengthening to improve flexibility and stabilize the spine
• Heat and cold therapy, ultrasound and electrical stimulation
• Activity modification
• NSAID anti-inflammatory medications
• Steroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain
• Physical therapy to improve flexibility

Surgical treatment of lumbar stenosis

Surgical management is aimed at decompressing the space around the spinal cord or nerves to decrease the underlying cause of symptoms. Surgical management is considered when conservative measures have not improved symptoms, and when the patient has red flag symptoms (loss of bowel or bladder function, sudden weakness in both legs, numbness in groin/genital area).

There are two primary kinds of minimally invasive spinal stenosis decompressive surgeries that Dr. Singh offers his patients:

Schedule a consultation

Dr. Kern Singh offers a range of lumbar spinal stenosis treatment options, including both non-surgical and surgical approaches, at his Chicago, Naperville, and Oak Brook locations. His expertise in minimally invasive spine surgery provides patients with relief from pain and improved mobility. Schedule an appointment today to discuss the best treatment plan for your lumbar spinal stenosis.

References

• Katz JN, Zimmerman ZE, Mass H, Makhni MC. Diagnosis and Management of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: A Review. JAMA. 2022;327(17):1688–1699. doi:10.1001/jama.2022.5921
• https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/lumbar-spinal-stenosis/
• Inose H, Kato T, Sasaki M, Matsukura Y, Hirai T, Yoshii T, Kawabata S, Hirakawa A, Okawa A. Comparison of decompression, decompression plus fusion, and decompression plus stabilization: a long-term follow-up of a prospective, randomized study. Spine J. 2022 May;22(5):747-755. doi: 10.1016/j.spinee.2021.12.014. Epub 2021 Dec 25. PMID: 34963630.