A narrowing canal that puts pressure on the nerves.
Spinal stenosis refers to a narrowing of the spinal canals, whether the central canal that houses the spinal cord or the openings where spinal nerves exit. This narrowing is often a natural result of aging, as discs shorten, ligaments stiffen, and bone spurs form. It can also result from trauma, spondylolisthesis, or prior surgery.
Lumbar stenosis can cause low back pain along with pain radiating into the buttocks or thighs, plus leg weakness, tingling, or numbness. Standing, walking, and backward bending often make symptoms worse, while sitting, forward bending, or unweighting the body typically brings relief. A decreased tolerance for walking is one of the clearest signs.
Conservative care, including stretching, strengthening, joint mobilization, aerobic exercise, and activity modification, is often the recommended starting point. Walking with an unweighting system or doing aquatic exercise can also help, alongside close communication between you, your physician, and your physical therapist.
Positional relief paired with progressive strengthening.
Treatment leans on the postures and movements that relieve nerve pressure, forward bending and unweighting, alongside strengthening and mobility work to build your tolerance for standing and walking.
No referral needed. Most insurances accepted. In most cases, you can be seen within the same week.
Schedule Your Appointment
No referral needed. Most insurances accepted. Same-week appointments available.
Your first visit is a thorough evaluation: come in, tell us everything, and leave with a plan.
You’re all set.
We’ll reach out within one business day to confirm your appointment. If you need to speak with us sooner, call us directly.