Is Spinal Stenosis Reversible?

It’s easy to overlook back pain; after all, something as simple as sleeping in an awkward position can cause a sore back. However, persistent back pain, along with tingling, numbness, or weakness in your arms or legs, are surefire signs of spinal stenosis. 

Spinal stenosis is where the spaces within your spine narrow, putting pressure on the nerves. It most commonly occurs in the lower back and neck. While the structural changes caused by spinal stenosis aren’t reversible, advances in medical treatments today can improve your symptoms dramatically. 

Some people respond so well to treatments that they practically forget they have the condition. However, to get the correct diagnosis and most effective care for spinal stenosis, your best bet is to see a neurologist. But not just any neurologist will do. 

Dr. Phillip Henkin, our expert neurosurgeon at NeuroSpine Center in Tampa, Florida, has extensive experience diagnosing and treating spinal stenosis using the latest methods.

Here, he covers the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for spinal stenosis. 

Why does spinal stenosis occur?

Spinal stenosis most commonly results from age-related wear and tear on the spine, mainly due to osteoarthritis. Over time, these changes can lead to:

• Bone spurs which are growths that invade the spinal canal
• Bulging or herniated discs
• Ligaments in the spine become stiff and bulky.
• Trauma or injury

The risk of developing spinal stenosis increases as you age. Most people diagnosed with the condition are over 50. While aging is the most common cause, conditions like scoliosis, tumors, or congenital disabilities can also play a role.

Is spinal stenosis reversible?

The spinal canal narrowing caused by stenosis is typically a permanent structural change. But that doesn’t mean there’s no hope. While the condition may not reverse in the true sense of the word, you can manage its symptoms with the right combination of treatments. Sometimes, these measures can make you feel as though you’ve reversed spinal stenosis.

Advancements in medical technology have introduced minimally invasive procedures and ingenious therapies that allow patients to live comfortably and even symptom-free. 

Treatment options for spinal stenosis

For mild to moderate cases, nonsurgical therapies are often the first line of treatment. These methods aim to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility. Physical therapy strengthens the muscles around your spine, improving stability and reducing pressure on nerves.

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs or prescription pain relievers can reduce pain and swelling. While epidural steroid injections deliver anti-inflammatory medication directly to the affected area, providing targeted pain relief

If your symptoms persist or worsen despite these treatments, Dr. Henkin may recommend a surgical procedure to create more space for the spinal nerves. Surgeries like laminectomy or foraminotomy remove bone spurs or portions of the vertebrae to widen the spinal canal. 

In severe cases, Dr. Henkin may perform spinal fusion to stabilize the spine after decompression surgery. Although we can’t technically reverse spinal stenosis, we can reduce or eliminate its symptoms. With today’s medical advancements, you can find relief, regain mobility, and return to living the life you enjoyed before your diagnosis. 

Whether you need physical therapy, medication, or advanced surgery, we at NeuroSpine Center have the expertise and technology to help you recover. Use our online scheduler to book a consultation with Dr. Henkin, or call NeuroSpine Center at 813-651-3300 today.