What Is Spinal Stenosis? A Physio’s Guide to Narrowing of the Spine
Spinal stenosis is a condition characterized by the narrowing of the spaces within your spine, which can put pressure on the nerves that travel through the spine. This narrowing most commonly occurs in the lumbar spine (lower back) or the cervical spine (neck). As a physiotherapist, I often see patients whose daily activities, from walking to simply standing, have become increasingly difficult due to this condition. The resulting compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots can lead to pain, numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness, significantly impacting a person’s quality of life. The good news is that Physiotherapy for Spinal Stenosis offers effective, non-surgical pathways to manage symptoms and improve mobility. Understanding the Causes of Spinal Stenosis Spinal stenosis is most often a result of age-related wear and tear changes in the spine, a process known as osteoarthritis. As we age, the discs between the vertebrae can lose height and bulge, and the joints can develop bone s...