Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis occurs when the spaces within your spine narrow, putting pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots. This can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the back, arms, or legs. At Hudson Specialty Care, with locations in Cliffside Park, Elizabeth, and Edison, New Jersey, as well as Manhattan, New York, our team offers advanced diagnostics and targeted treatments to relieve pressure, restore function, and improve quality of life. To learn more about spinal stenosis care or to schedule a consultation, call the office or request an appointment online today.

What causes spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis most commonly develops due to age-related changes in the spine. Over time, discs lose height, ligaments may thicken, and bone spurs can form—all of which can narrow the spinal canal and put pressure on nearby nerves.

Other common causes and contributing factors include:

• Arthritis and degenerative disc disease
• Herniated or bulging discs
• Spinal injuries or trauma
• Tumors within or near the spinal canal
• Congenital spinal deformities or a naturally narrow spinal canal

People born with less space in the spinal canal may develop symptoms earlier than others.

What symptoms are associated with spinal stenosis?

Symptoms vary depending on where the narrowing occurs:

Cervical spinal stenosis (neck region):

• Neck pain
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or hands
• Balance or coordination problems in severe cases

Lumbar spinal stenosis (lower back):

• Lower back pain and stiffness
• Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the legs or feet
• Heaviness or cramping, especially when walking or standing for long periods
• Relief when sitting or bending forward
  

Some people also experience neurogenic claudication, a feeling of pain, heaviness, or weakness in the legs after walking a certain distance that improves with rest.

How is spinal stenosis diagnosed?

At Hudson Specialty Care, diagnosis begins with a comprehensive evaluation of your symptoms, medical history, and physical function. During your exam, we assess:

• Range of motion and mobility
• Posture and spinal alignment
• Reflexes and nerve function
• Positions or movements that trigger symptoms
  

Advanced imaging studies such as MRI, CT scans, or X-rays may be used to pinpoint the location and severity of narrowing. In some cases, nerve conduction studies are performed to evaluate how well the affected nerves are functioning.

What treatments help spinal stenosis?

Hudson Specialty Care offers a full range of personalized treatments, including:

Medication Management

• Pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, and muscle relaxants to manage symptoms.

Interventional Pain Procedures

• Epidural steroid injections or nerve blocks to reduce inflammation and provide targeted relief.

Minimally Invasive Spine Procedures

• Removal of bone spurs, trimming of thickened ligaments, or addressing disc issues that compress nerves.
• MILD® Procedure: A tiny incision removes small amounts of bone and ligament tissue to relieve lumbar spinal stenosis pressure—no stitches, implants, or general anesthesia required.
• Vertiflex™ Procedure: A small implantable device is placed between spinal bones to create space and relieve nerve pressure, improving standing and walking tolerance.

Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation

• Exercises to strengthen supporting muscles, improve posture, and increase spinal flexibility.

Activity Modification & Posture Training

• Lifestyle adjustments to reduce flare-ups and protect your spine.

Regenerative Medicine Options

• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or stem cell therapies may help reduce inflammation and support tissue healing around irritated nerves.

Why is early spinal stenosis treatment important?

Without treatment, spinal stenosis can lead to progressive nerve damage, worsening mobility, and a reduced quality of life. In severe cases, permanent nerve injury may occur.

Early diagnosis and targeted intervention allow for more treatment options and a greater chance of long-term relief and functional recovery.

To learn more or schedule a comprehensive spinal stenosis evaluation, call Hudson Specialty Care or request an appointment online today.