Overview

Lumbar spinal stenosis occurs when the spinal canal in the lower back becomes narrowed, putting pressure on the spinal nerves. This condition often develops gradually with age but can also be accelerated by injury or repetitive strain. Common symptoms include lower back pain, leg numbness, and weakness—especially while walking or standing. Many patients find relief when sitting or bending forward, a phenomenon known as the "shopping cart sign."

Common Symptoms

• Lower back pain with leg heaviness or weakness
• Numbness or tingling in the buttocks or legs
• Difficulty standing or walking for long periods
• Pain relief when sitting, bending forward, or leaning over a cart (shopping cart sign)
• Leg fatigue or cramping (neurogenic claudication)

Causes & Risk Factors

• Age-related degeneration of discs and joints
• Thickening of spinal ligaments
• Herniated or bulging lumbar discs
• Bone spurs (osteophytes) from spinal arthritis
• Work-related strain, repetitive lifting, or spine trauma
• Prior spinal injury or surgery

How We Can Help

At Restore Spine and Pain, we specialize in diagnosing and managing lumbar spinal stenosis with non-surgical and minimally invasive options. Whether your symptoms are due to aging or a work-related injury, we provide effective treatment strategies tailored to your goals and lifestyle.

Treatment Options Offered

1. Physical therapy to improve posture, core strength, and flexibility
2. Activity pacing and ergonomic recommendations for work and daily life
3. Non-opioid medications to reduce inflammation and nerve pain
4. Lumbar epidural steroid injections to reduce nerve compression and inflammation
5. Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression (MILD) procedure to relieve stenosis caused by thickened ligaments in select patients