Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Treated in Spring, TX

Lumbar spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back. This common condition can result from ongoing wear and tear or age-related degenerative changes that gradually take place in the spine. For instance, a bulging or herniated disc, inflamed ligament or bone spur can “invade,” or take up space, in the spinal canal. Although this might sound concerning, it is not necessarily a cause for alarm. Lumbar spinal stenosis does not always cause problems or require treatment.

With that said, if you have chronic low back pain or if you have been diagnosed with lumbar spinal stenosis and you need treatment, you can explore your options with Dr. R. Alexander Mohr, a fellowship-trained, board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon who practices in the Spring, Texas, area. A skilled surgeon and compassionate medical professional, Dr. Mohr can help you find the relief you need.

Why Would You Need Treatment for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis?

Because the spinal canal houses and protects the spinal cord and a series of nerve roots, excess tissue within it can press on sensitive nerves, which can cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms. Here are some signs that you may have nerve compression due to lumbar spinal stenosis:

• You have low back pain that travels through your legs and feet
• You have muscle weakness, numbness or tingling sensations in one or both legs
• Your discomfort worsens with physical activity, such as walking
• Your discomfort improves with certain body positions, such as leaning over a shopping cart while walking

How Can Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Be Treated?

The symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis can usually be managed with conservative treatments. For instance, before you consider any type of surgery, Dr. Mohr may suggest that you try low-impact exercises, hot and cold compresses, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and possibly steroid injections. Keep in mind that it can take up to several weeks to see the effects of non-surgical therapies.

If you decide to move forward with surgical treatment for lumbar spinal stenosis, you may still have options. For instance, Dr. Mohr performs minimally invasive lumbar spine surgery that has many advantages over open back surgery, such as smaller incisions, a faster recovery, less post-operative discomfort and minimal scarring.

Whichever treatment approach you choose, you can confidently entrust your spine care to Dr. Mohr. To learn more about lumbar spinal stenosis treatment, contact his office near Spring, TX, today.