Spinal Stenosis

Spinal Stenosis

Spinal Stenosis services offered in Gainesville, FL

Numbness, tingling, neck pain, or back discomfort could indicate spinal stenosis (a narrowed spinal canal). At Synchrony Medical Group in Gainesville, Florida, pain management physicians Zeshan Hyder, DO, Rick Ramos, MD, and the highly trained team diagnose and treat spinal stenosis to ease your discomfort and prevent future problems. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office or using the online booking feature today. 

What is spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is a condition in which the space inside the backbone narrows, placing pressure on the nerves and spinal cord. It typically affects the neck or lower back. Spinal stenosis is common, as degenerative changes to the spine (including spinal stenosis) affect up to 95% of the population by age 50. 

Seek treatment at Synchrony Medical Group if your symptoms are bothersome or long-lasting. 

What are the symptoms of spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis can cause:

  • Tingling
  • Neck or back pain
  • Numbness
  • Muscle weakness
  • Cramping in one or both legs
  • Worsening symptoms when bending forward or sitting
  • Problems with balance or walking
  • Bladder or bowel issues

These symptoms may worsen over time. However, not everyone with spinal stenosis experiences noticeable symptoms. 

What may increase the risk of spinal stenosis?

Risk factors linked to spinal stenosis include:

  • Bone spurs
  • Age-related wear
  • Having a small spinal canal
  • Thickened ligaments in the spine
  • Tumors
  • Disc herniation 
  • Spinal injuries
  • Scoliosis

You might injure your spine by playing sports, being in a car accident, or falling. Being over 50 is also a spinal stenosis risk factor. 

How does a specialist diagnose spinal stenosis?

Diagnosing spinal stenosis involves a discussion about your medical history, symptoms, and medications. The Synchrony Medical Group team completes a physical exam and may order blood tests, X-rays, a CT scan, an MRI, or another imaging procedure to confirm a diagnosis or rule out other problems. 

How is spinal stenosis treated?

Your personalized spinal stenosis treatment plan depends on your symptoms and the severity of your condition. The Synchrony Medical Group offers:

  • Physical therapy
  • Heat or cold packs
  • Lifestyle changes 
  • Medications
  • Corticosteroid injections
  • Spinal manipulation 
  • Spinal surgery

Maintaining an ideal body weight, exercising regularly, and adopting additional healthy habits are also helpful. Losing excess weight helps reduce pressure placed on your lower back.

Surgery is a last resort, but it’s available at Synchrony Medical Group if conservative options haven’t worked. The skilled team uses cutting-edge surgical technologies and procedures to achieve superior, long-lasting outcomes. 

Schedule an evaluation at Synchrony Medical Group by phone or request one online today if you suspect you have spinal stenosis.