205-986-5200

Spinal Stenosis Specialist

Birmingham Neurosurgery & Spine Group Our Services Spinal Stenosis

Birmingham Neurosurgery & Spine Group

Neurological Surgery located in Birmingham, AL

Osteoarthritis that occurs as you age can contribute to a narrowing of your spinal column known as spinal stenosis. This condition causes neuropathologic pain that can make daily activities difficult. Fortunately, the caring team at Birmingham Neurosurgery & Spine Group can alleviate spinal stenosis with a broad range of therapeutic options. To put an end to the agony of spinal stenosis, call the office in Birmingham, Alabama.

Spinal Stenosis Q & A

  1. What is spinal stenosis?
  2. Your spine consists of bones called vertebrae that are stacked one upon another. Each vertebra has a hole in the center that creates a long column. Your spinal cord runs down your back through this column, from your brain to the base of your spine. The nerves that supply sensation to your torso and limbs emerge from your spinal cord through the sides of your vertebrae.
  3. Spinal stenosis is a condition in which your spinal column becomes more narrow. Aging is the primary cause of spinal stenosis, herniated discs, spinal injuries, and conditions like scoliosis can also contribute to spinal stenosis. 
  4. What are the symptoms of spinal stenosis?
  5. Spinal stenosis doesn’t always cause symptoms, but the disease frequently becomes worse with time, putting increasing pressure on your spinal cord and nerves. This can result in symptoms such as:
  • Neck or back pain
  • Numbness or tingling in arms, hands, feet, or legs
  • Poor balance
  • Difficulty walking 
  • Pain or cramping in the arms or legs
  • Leg or arm weakness
  1. Your symptoms may improve after periods of inactivity, but they usually return once you begin to move your neck, back, arms, or legs.
  2. How does a doctor diagnosis spinal stenosis?
  3. To diagnose spinal stenosis, your caring physician at Birmingham Neurosurgery & Spine Group performs a physical exam, reviews your medical history, and asks you questions about the exact nature of your symptoms. They also perform diagnostic procedures, such as:
  • X-ray
  • CT scan
  • MRI imaging
  • Myelogram
  1. These tests help your doctor determine the exact cause of your symptoms so they can recommend the best treatment for your individual needs.
  2. How is spinal stenosis treated?
  3. The skilled team at Birmingham Neurosurgery & Spine Group typically begins with conservative treatments to relieve the symptoms of spinal stenosis. This approach may include:
  • Physical therapy
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Pain medications
  • Epidural steroid injections
  • Nerve root blocks
  1. If conservative therapies don’t improve the condition, your doctor may recommend minimally invasive or traditional spinal surgery, such as a laminectomy or spinal fusion, to alleviate your pain. The surgeons at Birmingham Neurosurgery & Spine Group have extensive experience performing these procedures safely and effectively.
  2. If you suffer from symptoms of spinal stenosis, don’t wait to seek help. Schedule a consultation at Birmingham Neurosurgery & Spine Group.
What we offer

Services