Spinal Stenosis and Your Mobility: When It's Time to Explore Surgical Solutions

Spinal stenosis typically affects the lower back (lumbar spine) or neck (cervical spine). Roughly 95% of people have some degree of spinal stenosis by the age of 50. Moreover, spinal stenosis is the most common reason for spinal surgery in people over age 55.

At Seattle Spine Institute in Seattle, Washington, our experienced spine specialists routinely diagnose and treat pain caused by spinal stenosis. Here’s what you need to know about this common condition and when it could be time for surgical intervention.

Spinal stenosis symptoms and progression

Spinal stenosis occurs when the spaces within the spine narrow and place pressure on nearby nerves. This pressure can cause symptoms that interfere with your ability to move comfortably and confidently.

Common spinal stenosis symptoms include:

• Neck or lower back pain
• Numbness or tingling in the arms and/or legs
• Weakness in the extremities
• Difficulty standing or walking
• Balance problems
• Leg pain that improves when sitting or bending forward

If you've been living with spinal stenosis, you know it can affect much more than your back or neck. As symptoms progress, everyday activities like walking, shopping, or standing for long periods can become increasingly difficult.

Among the most common concerns patients describe is loss of their independence. Activities they once enjoyed become harder to manage, and simple tasks may require frequent breaks because of pain, weakness, or fatigue.

When mobility becomes limited, your overall quality of life can suffer as well.

Knowing when to consider surgery

Many people start with conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, injections, or activity modifications. Though these approaches can provide relief, they don't always prevent symptoms from worsening. If your mobility continues to decline, it may be time to discuss surgical options with a spine specialist.

Spinal surgery is usually considered only after conservative treatments fail to provide relief. Not everyone with spinal stenosis needs surgery, but it may be appropriate if your symptoms keep getting worse.

You should consider a surgical evaluation if you experience:

• Persistent pain that affects daily activities
• Increasing difficulty walking or standing
• Progressive weakness or numbness
• Balance or coordination problems
• Reduced benefit from nonsurgical treatments

Relieving pressure on the affected nerves and improving function are the goals of surgery. In many cases, spinal decompression, fusion, or disc stabilization using a Coflex® Interlaminar Stabilization® device will help resolve symptoms.

If spinal stenosis is limiting your mobility and preventing you from living the life you want, a consultation with a spine specialist can help determine whether surgery is the right next step. Contact our Seattle, Washington, office to schedule an appointment today by calling 206-322-1765 or contact us online.