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Spinal Stenosis

Stephen W Line, DO, CAQ-SM, Victoria Allon Nutting, MS, DO and Laura Marsh, MD, CAQ-SM Reviewed 04/2024
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

  • A condition characterized by narrowing of either the central spinal canal, lateral recess, and/or neural foramen.

  • Symptoms may include pain, numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness.

EPIDEMIOLOGY

DIAGNOSIS

The diagnosis of spinal stenosis can be made clinically based on typical features and symptoms, but is more commonly diagnosed radiographically. Anatomical narrowing can be seen in the absen...

TREATMENT

  • In general, nonoperative interventions are first line in the absence of progressive or debilitating neurologic symptoms:

    • Multimodal rehabilitation interventions, such as physical therapy, hom...

ONGOING CARE

FOLLOW-UP RECOMMENDATIONS

  • Follow up is based on stability or progression of symptoms.

  • No specific limitations to activity; patients may be as active as tolerated.

DIET

Optimize nutrition for ...

REFERENCES

1
Bussieres A, Cancelliere C, Ammendolia C, et al. Non-Surgical Interventions for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Leading to Neurogenic Claudication: A Clinical Practice Guideline. J Pain. 2021;(22):...

ADDITIONAL READING

Comer C, Ammendolia C, Battié MC.  et al. Consensus on a standardised treatment pathway algorithm for lumbar spinal stenosis: an international Delphi study.  ...

SEE ALSO

Algorithm: Low Back Pain, Acute 

CODES

ICD10

  • M48.00 Spinal stenosis, site unspecified

  • M48.06 Spinal stenosis, lumbar region

  • M48.04 Spinal stenosis, thoracic region

  • M48.05 Spinal stenosis, thoracolumbar region

  • M48.08 Spinal stenosis, sacra...

CLINICAL PEARLS

  • Spinal stenosis most commonly affects the lumbar spine.

  • Typical symptoms present as neurogenic claudication (pain, tightness, numbness, and subjective weakness of lower extremities). Fl...

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