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Spinal Stenosis

Spinal Stenosis Treatment in Brooklyn, NY

Spinal stenosis occurs when the spaces within the spine narrow, placing pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots. Because symptoms can vary based on the location and severity of narrowing, accurate diagnosis is essential before selecting treatment. At Motionis Medicine, spinal stenosis is evaluated through a physician-led, diagnosis-first approach focused on identifying the primary pain generator and guiding appropriate non-surgical care.

Care is led by Dr. Tanuj Palvia, MD, a board-certified interventional pain medicine physician with over 15 years of experience in image-guided spine care.

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What Is Spinal Stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is a condition in which the spinal canal or nerve passageways become narrowed, reducing space for the spinal cord or nerve roots. This narrowing most commonly develops as part of age-related degeneration but may also occur due to structural changes in the spine.

Spinal stenosis may affect different regions:

  • Cervical

    spinal stenosis (neck)

  • Thoracic

    spinal stenosis (mid-back)

  • Lumbar

    spinal stenosis (lower back)

Symptoms depend on the location and degree of nerve compression.

Common Spinal Stenosis Symptoms

Symptoms often develop gradually and may include:

Because symptoms can overlap with other spine conditions, further evaluation is often required.

  • Neck or lower back pain

  • Pain radiating into the arms or legs

  • Numbness or tingling in the extremities

  • Weakness in the arms or legs

  • Cramping or heaviness in the legs with walking

  • Symptoms that worsen with standing or walking and improve with sitting or bending forward

Common Causes of Spinal Stenosis We Evaluate

Spinal stenosis is usually caused by structural changes that reduce space within the spine, including:

  1. Degenerative disc disease

  2. Facet joint arthritis and thickened ligaments

  3. Bone spur (osteophyte) formation

  4. Disc bulging or herniation

  5. Spondylolisthesis

  6. Congenital narrowing of the spinal canal

How Spinal Stenosis Is Evaluated

Evaluation focuses on determining where narrowing is occurring and how it relates to symptoms. A physician-led assessment may include:

  • Detailed medical history and physical examination

  • Neurological assessment of strength, sensation, and reflexes

  • Review of prior imaging (MRI, CT, X-ray), when available

  • Image-guided diagnostic injections, when appropriate, to help localize pain sources

This structured approach helps distinguish spinal stenosis from other causes of neck or back pain.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Spinal Stenosis

Treatment recommendations depend on symptom severity, functional limitation, and patient goals. Non-surgical options may include:

All procedures are performed under fluoroscopic or ultrasound guidance for precision and safety and are selected as part of a broader care plan.

When a Specialist Evaluation May Help

You may benefit from a specialist evaluation if:

  • Walking or standing worsens leg or arm symptoms

  • Numbness, weakness, or balance issues develop

  • Pain persists despite physical therapy or medications

  • Imaging shows spinal narrowing, but surgery is unclear or undesired

  • Symptoms interfere with daily activities or mobility

A comprehensive evaluation can clarify the role spinal stenosis plays in your symptoms and outline appropriate next steps.

Related Spine & Nerve Conditions

Schedule a Spinal Stenosis Evaluation

If spinal stenosis symptoms are limiting your mobility or quality of life, a comprehensive evaluation can help clarify your options and determine the most appropriate non-surgical care.

Book an Appointment