Spinal Stenosis

What is Spinal Stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the spinal canal, decreasing space for the nerves. This can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs.

The most common cause of spinal stenosis is normal aging, which can often lead to bulging discs and the creation of bone spurs and arthritis. Spinal stenosis is more common at age 50 and above. Arthritis can also contribute to the problem by causing curving of the spine and shifting of the vertebrae.

UR Medicine's Treatments for Spinal Stenosis

UR Medicine’s spine care experts offer the most thorough diagnostics and up-to-date testing facilities, including:

Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) scan of the spine
Electromyogram (EMG)
Fluoroscopy
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the spine
Myelogram
Nerve conduction studies
X-rays of the spine, neck, or back

We offer a full range of progressive treatment options—from education and conservative rehabilitation measures to minimally invasive procedures to the most complex of surgeries.

We always recommend the least invasive procedure that can give you the best long-term result. Minimally invasive procedures include innovations such as image-guided spine injections or radiofrequency ablation.

Our expertise spans departments, including specialists in orthopaedics (working on bones, muscles, and joints) along with neurosurgeons, neurologists, physical therapists and neuro-pain management providers.

We focus on holistic care and wellness while specializing in surgical and non-surgical treatment options.

When surgery is the best option, UR Medicine surgeons can perform any type of spine surgery needed, including:

Anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF)
Cervical laminectomy with discectomy
Anterior cervical discectomy with fusion
Cervical decompression’s with and without fusion
Thoracic spine surgeries
Lumbar laminectomies, foraminotomies, decompression and fusion procedures

What Sets Us Apart?

Our team has the longest history of treating conditions of the spine in the Rochester and Finger Lakes region. Our program continues to grow; tens of thousands of patients work with our spine care team every year. We're one of the few centers in the region to offer non-invasive spine procedures.

For patients who need rehabilitation, we also run the Active Spine Program to help you regain your ability to move safely with less pain. Our specialists in the program work closely with your spine physicians as part of your medical team. You, your doctor, and your therapists will work together to develop a care plan that works with your doctor's treatment.

If you have questions during your treatment, your therapist in the Active Spine Program can get answers quickly and continue your care, keeping your recovery on track.

And because we’re an academic medical center, our involvement in research and education means our patients get access to clinically effective treatments that use the newest technologies, including computer-guided surgery, minimal incision surgery, minimally invasive surgery, and physical therapy and rehabilitation.