Chronic Back Pain Isn’t Just Muscle Aches — It May Be a Sign of Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is a condition in which the space within the spinal canal — responsible for protecting the spinal cord and nerves — becomes narrowed due to degenerative changes in structures such as the intervertebral discs, ligaments, and joints. This narrowing compresses the nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in various parts of the body, particularly the lower back and legs.

Spinal stenosis is common among older adults and is a major cause of chronic back pain. Without early evaluation and treatment by a spine specialist, it may lead to permanent weakness or loss of mobility.

Causes of Spinal Stenosis

The primary cause is age-related degeneration of the spine, often accompanied by several contributing factors:

Degenerative Disc Disease

• Disc shrinkage or bulging puts pressure on the nerve canal.

Facet Joint Hypertrophy

• Degeneration leads to bone overgrowth that narrows the canal.

Ligamentum Flavum Thickening

• Thickened ligaments reduce the space within the spinal canal.

Spondylolisthesis

• Forward slippage of a vertebra narrows the canal and compresses nerves.

Other causes include trauma, previous surgery, or congenital spine abnormalities.

Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis

Symptoms depend on the location and severity of nerve compression. Common symptoms include:

1. Lower back pain or pain radiating down the legs
2. Hip or leg pain when walking for extended periods
3. Worsening pain when leaning backward; relief when bending forward
4. Numbness, weakness, or heaviness in the legs
5. Difficulty walking long distances or needing frequent rests
6. In severe cases: loss of bladder or bowel control — a medical emergency

How is Spinal Stenosis Diagnosed?

Doctors evaluate the condition through history-taking, physical examination, and imaging such as:

1. X-ray: Shows bone alignment and joint abnormalities
2. MRI: Provides detailed views of the nerve canal, discs, and nerves
3. CT Scan: Used when MRI isn’t possible; shows bone structures clearly

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and symptoms. Options include:

Non-Surgical Treatment

Suitable for patients with mild to moderate symptoms:

1. Physical therapy to strengthen back and abdominal muscles
2. Pain medications or muscle relaxants
3. Local anti-inflammatory injections
4. Lifestyle modifications such as avoiding heavy lifting or prolonged back extension

Surgical Treatment

Considered when symptoms are severe or do not improve:

1. Decompression Surgery: Relieves pressure on the nerves
2. Spinal Fusion: Stabilizes the spine in cases of vertebral slippage

At Vejthani International Hospital, decompression surgery is performed using microscope or endoscope-assisted techniques, resulting in smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery.

Prevention & Self-Care

1. Regular exercises to strengthen the back and core muscles
2. Maintain a healthy body weight
3. Avoid heavy lifting or prolonged sitting in the same posture
4. Seek early evaluation if chronic back pain or radiating leg pain occurs

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How is spinal stenosis different from a herniated disc?

Both may cause similar symptoms, such as back pain and leg pain. However, a herniated disc occurs when disc material presses directly on a nerve, whereas spinal stenosis results from narrowing of the spinal canal caused by degeneration, often developing gradually and commonly seen in older adults.

2. Does every patient with spinal stenosis need surgery?

No. Most patients improve with non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, injections, and lifestyle adjustments. Surgery is recommended only for those with progressive numbness, weakness, limited walking ability, or loss of bladder/bowel control.

3. How long is the recovery after spinal stenosis surgery?

With modern minimally invasive techniques, most patients can walk within 1–2 days after surgery and return to everyday life within a few weeks. Recovery time depends on individual health and rehabilitation progress.

4. What types of exercise are safe?

Choose low-impact exercises that strengthen the back, core, and legs, such as swimming, water walking, gentle yoga, or senior-friendly Pilates. These help reduce spinal pressure and prevent recurrence.

For more information, contact

Spine Center, Vejthani International Hospital
Tel: 02-734-0000 ext. 5500
English Hotline: (+66)85-223-8888

Medically Reviewed by

DR. EKKAPHOL LARPUMNUAYPHOL

Orthopedics

Spine Surgery

Make an Appointment Doctor Profile

Related Posts

See All

Ischemic Stroke: A Medical Emergency That Requires Immediate Treatment to Prevent Paralysis

Ischemic stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked or severely reduced, depriving the brain of oxygen and essential nutrients. When this happens, brain cells begin to die within minutes. Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability, especially if left untreated. Causes of Ischemic Stroke An ischemic stroke […]

Health Articles

Interrupted Urination: The First Sign of Prostate Cancer — A Silent Threat Every Man Faces

Prostate Gland The prostate is a male reproductive gland, shaped much like a chestnut that surrounds the beginning of the urethra (the tube carrying urine from the bladder). It lies in front of the rectum. The prostate’s role is to produce seminal fluid — a vital component of semen — which supports sperm health and […]

Health Articles