Back pain is one of the most common complaints today, especially among people above 50. One of the leading causes of this pain is a condition known as Spinal Stenosis. If you or your loved one has been diagnosed with spinal stenosis or looking for treatment in Pune, this blog will help you understand the condition in simple terms.
What is Spinal Stenosis?
Your spine has a central canal that holds the spinal cord and nerves. Spinal stenosis is when this canal becomes narrow and starts pressing on the nerves. This pressure causes pain, numbness, or weakness—mainly in your lower back or neck.
What Causes Spinal Stenosis?
Spinal stenosis usually develops over time due to age-related wear and tear. The common causes include:
- Osteoarthritis (wearing down of joints)
- Disc bulge or herniation
- Thickened ligaments
- Bone spurs
- Spine injuries
- Congenital spinal narrowing (present from birth)
Common Symptoms
The symptoms vary depending on whether the narrowing is in your lower back (lumbar spine) or neck (cervical spine). You may experience:
- Pain in the lower back, hips, or legs
- Numbness or tingling in the legs or feet
- Difficulty walking or standing for long periods
- Neck pain, arm weakness (if cervical stenosis)
- Relief when bending forward or sitting
In severe cases, it can also affect bladder or bowel control.
Diagnosis of Spinal Stenosis
If you’re in Pune and facing such symptoms, visit a spine specialist or neurosurgeon. The doctor may recommend:
- Clinical examination
- MRI or CT scan
- X-rays of the spine
These tests help determine the location and severity of the narrowing.
Treatment Options in Pune
The treatment depends on how severe the symptoms are:
1. Non-Surgical Treatments
- Physiotherapy
- Pain-relief medications
- Epidural steroid injections
- Lifestyle modifications and posture training
2. Surgical Treatment
If the pain is persistent and affecting your daily life, surgery may be advised. One common surgery is decompression or laminectomy, where the pressure on the nerves is relieved by removing the narrowed parts of the spine. In some cases, spinal fusion may be required to stabilize the spine.
When to See a Spine Surgeon?
If you’re experiencing chronic back or leg pain, numbness, or weakness, don’t ignore it. Early diagnosis can prevent worsening. In Pune, experienced neurosurgeons and spine specialists offer advanced care, including minimally invasive surgeries with faster recovery.
Spinal stenosis may sound scary, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, most people get relief and return to a better quality of life. Whether you’re looking for non-surgical care or expert spinal surgery in Pune, there are experienced professionals ready to help.
Don’t let back pain limit your life—consult a spine expert today.
