Treatments for Spinal Stenosis in Southern California

Spinal stenosis occurs when the spinal canal and spinal nerve passageways narrow due to degenerative changes in the spine, such as osteoarthritis. As it advances, this narrowing can compress the nerves in the spine causing symptoms such as numbness, muscle weakness, and pain. At Dignity Health Southern California, our personalized treatment strategies for spinal stenosis focus on improving motor and sensory function, reducing pain, relieving pressure on the spinal nerves, and managing other symptoms.

To meet with one of our highly trained neurologist to discuss your options for spinal stenosis treatment in Southern California, use our online Find a Doctor tool and make an appointment today.

Spinal Stenosis Medications

Medications can help reduce the swelling, pain, and inflammation of osteoarthritis and spinal stenosis.

Medications for spinal stenosis may include:

  • Muscle relaxant medications
  • Prescription anti-inflammatory medications
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medications
  • Narcotic pain relievers

Physical Therapy for Spinal Stenosis

Physical therapy strengthens the muscles that support the spine. Your physical therapist will create a strengthening exercise plan that can help you maintain good posture and take pressure off the spinal nerves to alleviate your pain.

Spinal Stenosis Injections

Your Dignity Health Southern California doctor may suggest epidural spinal injections if your spinal stenosis symptoms do not respond to medications and physical therapy. In this procedure, your doctor injects a dose of corticosteroid combined with numbing medicine into a small space adjacent to your spinal cord. These injections can provide extended temporary pain relief.

Spinal Stenosis Surgery

Your doctor may recommend surgery to reduce pressure on your spinal nerves if all other treatment options have failed to provide pain relief. These procedures include:

  • Opening the spinal canal (foraminotomy)
  • Laminectomy
  • Spinal fusion
  • Discectomy

Considering Your Treatment Options at Dignity Health Southern California

As a partner in your health, the neurology team at Dignity Health Southern California will work with you to create an individualized treatment plan based on your overall health, the severity of your symptoms, and your personal preferences. Be sure to consider the risks and benefits or all proposed treatments when discussing your treatment goals with your doctor.

Dignity Health offers advanced treatment and care for neurological conditions, including spinal stenosis, in Southern California.