Spinal Stenosis: Symptoms, Causes, and Advanced Treatment Options

Spinal stenosis is a progressive narrowing of the spinal canal that results in the compression of the spinal cord and nerve roots. This compression can occur at the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar levels and is a common cause of pain and functional limitation in older adults. At DrGilete.com, we specialize in evaluating and treating patients with spinal stenosis, especially those with complex conditions or connective tissue disorders such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS).

What is Spinal Stenosis?

Spinal stenosis refers to the reduction in space within the spine, most often due to degeneration of the intervertebral discs, thickening of ligaments, or arthritic changes in the vertebrae. The condition may develop gradually, leading to compression of the spinal cord and/or exiting nerve roots. It most frequently affects the lumbar and cervical spine.

 

Common Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis

Patients often experience:

  • Neurogenic claudication: pain and weakness while walking that improves with rest
  • Lower back pain
  • Radiating leg pain (sciatica)
  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs or arms
  • Loss of balance or coordination

 

We frequently see patients who report the inability to walk long distances, needing to stop often due to pain or numbness. These are classic signs of lumbar stenosis compressing the nerve roots.

 

Diagnosis and Imaging

Diagnosis requires a comprehensive approach combining clinical evaluation and imaging. Standard MRI is typically the gold standard for visualizing stenosis. At our center in Barcelona, we employ advanced imaging technologies including prone 3T MRI with artificial intelligence filters, allowing us to capture clearer images even in patients with significant respiratory artifacts or mobility issues.

 

Causes and Risk Factors

The most common causes include:

  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Osteoarthritis and thickening of spinal ligaments
  • Herniated discs
  • Congenital spinal canal narrowing
  • Post-surgical changes

 

In patients with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, ligamentous laxity contributes to instability and dynamic compression, which may exacerbate or mimic stenosis symptoms. We are one of the few centers in Europe that evaluates spinal stenosis in the context of genetic connective tissue disorders.

 

Non-Surgical Treatments

Initial management usually includes:

  • Physical therapy focused on posture and mobility
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Epidural steroid injections
  • Activity modification and ergonomic guidance

 

These approaches can relieve symptoms, especially in early stages. For more complex cases, we offer comprehensive evaluations to determine the suitability of surgical intervention.

 

Minimally Invasive Surgery for Spinal Stenosis

When conservative treatments fail, Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) becomes an effective option. We perform high-speed drilling targeting the compressing laminae through MIS approaches. These procedures may include:

  • Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression
  • Microdiscectomy
  • Motion sparing implants

 

Our surgical protocols reduce muscle damage and blood loss. In many cases, patients are discharged the next day or after 2–3 days depending on individual recovery. Most experience pain relief soon after surgery, though some may feel residual discomfort that gradually resolves.

 

Recovery and Postoperative Care

Recovery usually spans 2 to 6 weeks. We recommend avoiding low sitting positions and lifting heavy objects during the first 2–3 weeks. Our patients benefit from coordinated care in Barcelona, with post-op follow-up before traveling home. This ensures safe and monitored recovery.

 

Why Choose Dr. Gilete?

We are Europe’s only clinic recognized as an EDS Center of Excellence performing advanced spinal surgeries. Our multidisciplinary team incorporates:

  • Immunologic and inflammatory evaluation
  • Cutting-edge imaging and diagnostics
  • Personalized surgical and non-surgical care

 

With over 25 years of experience in minimally invasive neurosurgery and spine reconstruction, Dr. Gilete and his team ensure top-level medical precision and compassionate care.

Request a consultation today—in person or remotely. Visit drgilete.com or contact our team for more information about our evaluation and treatment programs for spinal stenosis.

 

FAQs

 

Can spinal stenosis go away without surgery?

No. While symptoms may improve with non-surgical treatments, the structural narrowing remains. Surgery is considered if symptoms worsen or significantly limit function.

Is spinal stenosis a permanent condition?

Yes, it is a chronic condition, but its impact can be managed effectively through physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgical decompression.

What are the signs I need surgery for spinal stenosis?

Signs include inability to walk for prolonged periods, progressive weakness or numbness in limbs, loss of bladder control, or failure to respond to conservative therapies.

 

Conclusion

Spinal stenosis is a manageable condition with the right evaluation, imaging, and treatment approach. At DrGilete.com, we combine deep clinical expertise, technological innovation, and a unique integrative model to provide hope and healing. If you suffer from spinal stenosis, especially in the context of complex conditions like EDS, we are here to help. Let us guide your path to recovery.

 

 

Reviewed and approved by Dr. Vicenç Gilete, MD, Neurosurgeon  & Spine Surgeon | May 20, 2025

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