Spinal Stenosis

What is Spinal Stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is a condition in which the spinal canal (the passage where nerves travel) narrows and compresses the nerves. It develops slowly as vertebrae, ligaments, and joints thicken with age, and is most commonly seen in patients in their 60s and older.

Overview of spinal stenosis
ā–² A narrowed spinal canal compresses the nerves in spinal stenosis
Main Causes:
  • Age-related degenerative changes in the vertebrae
  • Thickening (hypertrophy) of the ligamentum flavum
  • Disc degeneration and facet joint hypertrophy
  • Structural instability such as spondylolisthesis

Disc vs. Stenosis: What's the Difference?

Lumbar Disc (HIVD)
  • šŸ”¹ Common even in younger adults (20sā€“50s)
  • šŸ”¹ Pain is worse while sitting
  • šŸ”¹ Often acute onset
  • šŸ”¹ Distinct radiating leg pain
Spinal Stenosis
  • šŸ”¹ Mostly in older adults (60s+)
  • šŸ”¹ Leg numbness/pain worsens when walking
  • šŸ”¹ Gradual, chronic progression
  • šŸ”¹ Relieved by bending forward

Q. Signs That May Suggest Stenosis

The most characteristic symptom is intermittent (neurogenic) claudication.

šŸš¶

Intermittent Claudication

After walking a certain distance, the legs feel numb and weak, requiring rest. After sitting briefly, walking becomes possible again.

šŸŖ‘

Position-Dependent Changes

Bending forward brings relief, while leaning back or standing for long periods worsens pain.

āš”

Leg Numbness or Reduced Sensation

Numbness, burning, or dulled sensation radiating from the buttocks down the leg ā€” on one or both sides.

šŸŒ™

Night or Morning Stiffness

Common complaints include leg cramps at dawn and lower-back stiffness upon waking.

Osundosun's Approach to Stenosis

Is surgery always necessary?
Unless there are serious neurological signs such as bladder/bowel dysfunction or motor weakness, conservative care comes first. In many cases, consistent management can improve pain and walking distance.
Our Treatment Approach

The goals are to reduce inflammation around the nerves and to release tension in the muscles and ligaments surrounding the narrowed spinal canal, easing nerve compression.

Our Solution:
Acupuncture relaxes tension in the lumbar and lower-limb muscles, and ultrasound-guided pharmacopuncture allows precise care around the affected nerves. Chuna therapy addresses spinal and pelvic alignment, reducing contributing factors of nerve compression.
What should I watch for in daily life?
Avoid heavy lifting, prolonged standing, and positions that arch the back. Low-impact aerobic activities such as walking, swimming, or indoor cycling are helpful. We provide individual lifestyle guidance at your visit.

Consistent care is the key with stenosis.

Spinal stenosis progresses gradually with age, so
early management and lifestyle adjustments matter more than anything.

Osundosun Korean Medicine Clinic is here to help you keep walking comfortably for longer.