Spinal Stenosis Treatment
Also known as: spinal canal stenosis, lumbar spinal stenosis, cervical spinal stenosis
Spinal stenosis treatment aims to ease nerve-related pain, improve walking tolerance, and help you stay active and independent.
What is spinal stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is a condition characterised by narrowing of the spinal canal, the space within the spine that houses the spinal cord and nerve roots. This narrowing reduces the available space, leading to increased pressure and irritation of these structures. The spinal canal can become constricted due to various factors, such as bone overgrowth (osteophytes), thickened ligaments, herniated or bulging discs, or, more rarely, tumours. This condition most commonly affects the lumbar (lower back) and cervical (neck) regions of the spine.
The narrowing in spinal stenosis can cause a range of symptoms depending on the location and severity of the compression. In lumbar stenosis, patients often experience leg pain, numbness, weakness, or tingling, especially when walking or standing for prolonged periods. These symptoms may improve when sitting or bending forward, positions that temporarily increase space within the spinal canal. Cervical stenosis can lead to neck pain, arm pain, numbness, or weakness and, in severe cases, may affect balance and coordination due to spinal cord compression.
Spinal stenosis is primarily associated with the natural ageing process, where degenerative changes in the spine lead to the gradual narrowing of the spinal canal. However, it can also result from congenital spinal deformities, spinal injuries, or other medical conditions. The severity of symptoms varies widely among individuals; some may have significant spinal canal narrowing but experience minimal symptoms, while others may have debilitating pain and neurological deficits.
Early diagnosis and management are important to prevent symptom worsening and potential nerve injury. Treatment options range from conservative approaches such as physical therapy and pain management to more invasive procedures like spinal injections or surgery, depending on the severity and impact on quality of life.
What are spinal stenosis injections?
Spinal stenosis injections are minimally invasive procedures used to help relieve pain and inflammation caused by the narrowing of the spinal canal and the resulting pressure on the spinal nerves and nerve roots. The most common type of spinal stenosis injection is the epidural steroid injection, which combines a corticosteroid medication with a local anaesthetic to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. These injections can be particularly beneficial for patients who have not responded well to conservative treatments like physical therapy or medications, or for those who want to delay or avoid spinal surgery.
Hospital fee guide price: £1,820*
More about pricingBefore treatment
During your initial consultation, the spinal specialist will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your symptoms and perform a thorough physical examination. To confirm the diagnosis and effectively rule out other potential conditions, imaging tests are usually performed as an essential component of the diagnostic process. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is commonly utilised to provide detailed, high-resolution images of the spine, nerves, and surrounding tissues, helping to precisely identify the exact location and underlying cause of spinal stenosis symptoms. X-rays can also prove particularly helpful in detecting bone spurs, bone overgrowth, or other significant changes in the bones that may be contributing to the narrowing of the spinal canal. In selected cases, contrast imaging such as CT myelography may be used to visualise nerve compression better when MRI is not suitable or inconclusive. These diagnostic tests are essential for determining whether spinal surgery or other treatment interventions are necessary, and they help your spinal consultant develop the most effective and personalised treatment plan.
Lifestyle changes
Implementing specific lifestyle modifications can play a crucial role in managing your spinal stenosis symptoms and enhancing your overall quality of life. Maintaining a healthy weight may help decrease pressure on your spine and nerves, easing your pain and discomfort. Regular exercise, particularly when supervised by a physical therapist, can strengthen the muscles that support your spine and improve your flexibility. Healthcare professionals often recommend physical therapy to help relieve your pain, increase your mobility, and teach you safe movement techniques. Simple adjustments to your daily routines, such as taking frequent breaks while walking, using proper lifting techniques, and avoiding activities that might worsen your symptoms, can also significantly improve your condition. Applying heat or cold therapy to the affected area may help reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief. By adopting these lifestyle modifications, many patients with spinal stenosis can manage their condition more effectively and maintain a higher quality of life.
During treatment
During the procedure, the consultant uses imaging guidance, most commonly fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray imaging), to accurately place the needle in the epidural space near the affected spinal nerve roots. Contrast material may be injected to confirm the medication’s correct placement. The injection site is typically numbed with a local anaesthetic to minimise discomfort during the procedure.
Spinal stenosis injections can provide temporary relief from nerve-related pain, often lasting for several weeks to months, although responses vary between individuals. In some cases, a short series of injections may be recommended, depending on individual response and clinical guidance. While these injections do not cure spinal stenosis or reverse the narrowing of the spinal canal, they can significantly relieve pain and inflammation, making it easier for patients to participate in physical therapy and perform everyday activities.
After treatment
It is important to note that while spinal stenosis injections are generally safe, they may have some risks and potential side effects. These can include an injection site reaction, infection, bleeding, or, rarely, nerve injury. Patients with certain medical conditions or those taking medications that affect blood clotting should discuss these risks with their healthcare professional. Additionally, repeated steroid injections may be associated with side effects such as reduced bone density, soft tissue weakening, or hormonal effects, so the number and frequency of injections are carefully limited.
Appointment and Treatment Plan
Assessment
Your clinician assesses your symptoms, walking tolerance, and neurological signs to determine whether spinal stenosis is contributing to your pain.
Diagnosis
A physical examination is performed and imaging such as MRI or X-rays is reviewed to confirm spinal canal narrowing and nerve involvement.
Conservative management
Most patients begin with non-surgical care, including physiotherapy, activity modification, pain relief, and lifestyle advice to support mobility.
Targeted injections
If symptoms persist, image-guided epidural steroid injections may be offered to reduce nerve inflammation and improve function.
Ongoing review
Your response to treatment is monitored, and further rehabilitation or repeat interventions may be discussed if needed.
Surgical referral (if required)
In selected cases with severe or progressive symptoms, you may be referred to a spinal surgical service for further assessment.
Experts
We are proud to provide patients with access to a wide range of clinicians, chosen specifically for their knowledge and reputation in their area of expertise. Our experts align with our values: putting you at the centre of your care and educating you on your options at each step of the journey. We encourage you to learn more about our clinicians and how they can help you below. As always, please contact our patient services team if you require any additional information.
We offer 3 ways to pay for your treatment
We exist to take the stress out of private healthcare.
Our payment options are designed to offer you easy access to our treatments and services. You can choose to pay on the day, spread the cost, or use your private medical insurance.
Our patient services team will guide you through the process, providing clear costs and support throughout your course of treatment so you can focus on the thing that matters most – your health.
Whether you pay in advance, spread the cost, or use your private medical insurance, rest assured you will be receiving exceptional care 365 days a year.
Pay in Advance
Even if you do not have medical insurance, you can still get quick and comprehensive access to private medical care.
We provide transparent pricing from your initial consultation to the completion of your treatment so you know where you stand, every step of the way.
We accept all major debit and credit cards, as well as Apple Pay for UK residents. Please note that we do not accept cash or cheques.
Spread the cost monthly
Paying for your treatment at One Stop Healthcare can be spread monthly from 12 to 60 months, rather than paying in one go.
With an upfront 10% deposit paid, via our Financial partner Chrysalis Finance, we offer various flexible terms to enable you to spread the cost, including 12-months at 0% APR. Click here to find out more.
Monthly payments need to be linked to a One Stop Healthcare treatment over £385 and is subject to a 14-day ‘cooling-off’ period before any treatment can start.
Your on-going payments will be made directly between Chrysalis and yourself. It’s that simple.
Pay using PMI
We are recognised by all major health insurance companies and with our extensive range of services, there are lots of benefits to using your insurance with us. Our patient services team is here to answer any questions you may have about using your private health insurance with us.
Please bring along your policy details including your scheme details, membership or policy number, expiry date and confirmation of eligibility to claim (i.e. your authorisation number). If you do not have these details with you, we will require payment from you on the day. Patients are liable for any amounts not settled by their insurer.
Pricing
Hospital fee guide price: £1,820
Procedure price subject to bespoke quotation.
Additional consultant fee not included.
FAQs
The most commonly used injections for spinal stenosis are epidural steroid injections. These combine a corticosteroid medication with a local anaesthetic to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief directly in the epidural space surrounding the spinal cord and nerve roots. Depending on the specific symptoms and location of the stenosis, injections may be targeted to the lumbar spine (lower back) or cervical spine (neck). Other types of injections, such as nerve root blocks or facet joint injections, can also be used in some cases to address specific sources of pain.
Epidural steroid injections can be effective in providing temporary relief from spinal stenosis pain and nerve inflammation. Many patients experience reduced leg pain, numbness, and weakness, allowing them to fully engage in physical therapy and daily activities. The duration of pain relief varies, ranging from a few weeks to several months. However, these injections do not cure spinal stenosis or reverse the narrowing of the spinal canal. Effectiveness may also depend on the severity of the condition and individual patient factors such as general health.
The number of injections recommended varies based on individual response and symptom severity. In some cases, a short series of injections spaced several weeks apart may be recommended, depending on individual response and clinical guidelines. However, healthcare professionals carefully monitor the frequency and total number of injections due to potential side effects associated with repeated steroid use, such as weakening of bones, tendons, and ligaments.
The best treatment for spinal stenosis depends on the severity of symptoms, the impact on quality of life, and individual patient factors. Conservative treatments like physical therapy, weight loss, and pain management are usually first-line options. Spinal stenosis injections can provide additional relief when conservative measures are insufficient. In severe cases where symptoms worsen or neurological deficits develop, spinal surgery to create more room in the spinal canal may be necessary. Surgery is only considered in selected cases, and, where appropriate, patients are referred to a spinal surgical service for further assessment.
Spinal stenosis itself does not typically affect life expectancy. It is primarily a quality-of-life condition related to pain and mobility. With appropriate management, including lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and medical treatments, many individuals live normal, active lives. However, severe complications such as cauda equina syndrome require urgent medical attention to prevent lasting damage.
Non-surgical treatments for spinal stenosis include physical therapy to strengthen supporting muscles and improve flexibility, pain medications to manage discomfort, and spinal stenosis injections to reduce inflammation and nerve pain. Lifestyle modifications, such as weight loss and adjustments to physical activity, can also alleviate symptoms. In some cases, assistive devices such as walking aids may improve mobility.
Yes, many people with spinal stenosis can live a normal life by managing their symptoms effectively. With appropriate treatment and lifestyle changes, individuals often maintain mobility and participate in daily activities. Regular monitoring by a healthcare professional ensures that any progression of symptoms is addressed promptly to maintain quality of life.