Spinal Stenosis Treatment in Arlington, VA

What is Spinal Stenosis?

Most commonly caused by changes in the spine due to osteoarthritis, Spinal Stenosis is a narrowing of space within your spine that places pressure on the nerves. The narrowing can happen at various places within your spine, but will often cause the same symptoms due to the compression of the nerves. Common symptoms include numbness, tingling, and/or pain that travels down your legs. 

Seek relief from spinal stenosis with the expertise of Dr. Timothy Herberg, our leading interventional pain specialist. Schedule an appointment today by calling (703) 892-6500. We have clinics in Arlington, Fairfax, Lorton, Alexandria, and Reston.

While spinal stenosis may be something one is born with or caused by osteoarthritis, other causes can include: 

• Herniated disks
• Tough or thickened ligaments
• Tumors
• Injuries to your spine
• Overgrowth of bone

Types of Spinal Stenosis

Because the condition can occur at different locations within the spine, it is classified based on the area affected. Cervical stenosis is when the narrowing occurs in the neck, while lumbar stenosis is when the narrowing occurs in the lower part of your back. Lumbar stenosis is cited as the most common form of spinal stenosis. 

Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis

Based on the location of stenosis, the symptoms may either be non-existent, or range in severity. The most common symptoms will include: 

• Numbness, weakness, or tingling in your limbs (hand, arm, foot, or leg)
• Issues with balance and walking. 
• Neck or back pain. 

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed, it’s important to get checked by Dr. Herberg. While the issue may not be spinal stenosis, there may be an underlying cause that requires treatment. 

Diagnosis and Treatment

After discussing your symptoms with Dr. Herberg, a physical examination will be conducted to determine the severity and root of the issue. In addition, imaging tests may be ordered including X-rays, MRIs, or CTs. These will allow Dr. Herberg, to further see the exact location of stenosis to classify and design a treatment plan. 

The treatment plan designed for you will depend strongly on the severity of the pain and the location of the stenosis. If the symptoms are mild, Dr. Herberg may discuss home relief such as mild exercises. If these do not work, but the symptoms are still not severe, Dr. Herberg, may prescribe pain relievers or antidepressants to ease the pain. 

Further treatment often starts with physical therapy and progresses from there. Treatment plans for severe symptoms may include: 

• Steroid injections
• Massage therapy and acupuncture
• Chiropractic treatment
• Decompression procedures
• Surgery such as: 
  • Laminectomy
  • Laminotomy
  • Laminoplasty
  • Minimally invasive options

Make sure to consult with Dr. Herberg for treatment options. 

Schedule a Spinal Stenosis Treatment  Appointment in Arlington, VA

If you are experiencing symptoms of spinal stenosis, or have questions about your spine health, contact our interventional pain specialist, Dr. Timothy Herberg. Call our orthopedic clinic in Arlington, VA today at (703) 892-6500.