Spinal stenosis is caused by compression of the spinal canal due to hypertrophy of the joints or ligaments brought on by aging. Numbness in the legs or stinging pain in the lumbar area while walking is a typical symptom of spinal stenosis. Patients are often forced to take frequent breaks or bend forward to alleviate pain. In addition to pain in the lumbar area, some patients develop pain in the lower extremities or a chilling sensation in the hips and legs.

Upon receiving surgical treatment, each patient should wear a custom-fitted brace (over time, reduce the time wearing the brace). Patients should refrain from overly strenuous physical activities, and preferably engage in light Orthopedic Manipulative Physical Therapy or exercises designed to restore the joint’s range of motion. Patients should continue to monitor their condition, and continue their Orthopedic Manipulative Physical Therapy program to improve their symptoms.