Spinal Cord Stenosis: Symptoms, Treatment, and What to Expect

Moderate to severe spinal cord stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal compressing the cord) can cause significant neurological deficits. Prompt evaluation is essential.

Common Symptoms

• Neck/back pain
• Numbness, tingling, weakness in limbs
• Gait disturbance, balance problems
• Bowel/bladder dysfunction (late sign)
• Hyperreflexia, spasticity

Treatment Options

Conservative

• NSAIDs, neuropathic pain agents (gabapentin)
• Physical therapy: core strengthening, posture, gait training
• Epidural steroid injections (temporary relief)

Surgical (if conservative fails or progressive deficit)

• Laminectomy (decompression)
• Laminoplasty (cervical)
• Foraminotomy (nerve root decompression)
• Spinal fusion (if instability)

Prognosis

Early decompression improves outcomes. Chronic compression may cause permanent myelopathy. Regular follow-up monitors progression.