Spinal Canal Stenosis

Injuries > Lower Back > Spinal Canal Stenosis

(Also known as Spinal Stenosis, Lumbar Stenosis, Foraminal Stenosis, Lumbar Spinal Stenosis, Vertebral Canal Stenosis)

What is spinal canal stenosis?

The spine comprises of many bones known as vertebrae each of which has a large hole in its centre (figure 1). Because these bones are situated on top of each other, their holes line up, forming the spinal canal. This canal provides protection and space for the spinal cord and nerves to travel from the brain to the rest of the body. Each vertebra connects with the vertebra above and below via two types of joints: the facet joints on either side of the spine and the disc centrally (figure 2).

Occasionally, the spinal canal can begin to narrow. This is normally associated with ageing or osteoarthritis and is due to gradual wear and tear of the bones, joints, and discs. When this occurs, it is known as spinal canal stenosis. As the condition progresses, the narrowing may place pressure on the spinal cord resulting in a variety of symptoms.

Signs and symptoms of spinal canal stenosis

Spinal canal stenosis is usually seen in older patients who have degenerative changes to their spine. Patients with minor canal stenosis may experience little or no symptoms. As the condition progresses patients may experience low back pain and stiffness. In more severe cases involving spinal cord compression, pain, pins and needles, weakness or numbness may be experienced in the lower back, legs or feet.

Generally, patients with this condition experience an increase in symptoms during activities that repetitively or continuously straighten or extend the spine (figure 3). Symptoms may also increase during activities that place weight on the spine (eg. lifting, prolonged standing, walking etc). Symptoms tend to ease during activities that bend the spine (e.g. sitting) or take weight off it (e.g. lying).

Diagnosis of spinal canal stenosis

Investigations such as an X-Ray, CT scan or MRI are usually required to confirm diagnosis of spinal canal stenosis.

Treatment for spinal canal stenosis

Patients with this condition are generally managed well with an appropriate physiotherapy program. Whilst little can be done to reverse the degenerative changes to the spine, patients can generally remain active by modifying their activities appropriately. The primary goal of treatment is to remain as active as possible without aggravating symptoms in order to maintain strength and mobility and to avoid deterioration. This can be achieved by having regular breaks from levels of activity that increase symptoms (e.g. excessive walking, standing, lifting) with positions of comfort (e.g. sitting or lying). Activities should be balanced ideally to prevent any increase in symptoms. A gradual increase in activity and exercise can occur as guided by the treating physiotherapist provided symptoms do not increase.

Alternative exercises placing minimal force through the spine should also be performed to maintain fitness provided they do not increase symptoms. Better activities include: cycling on a stationary bike and hydrotherapy exercises designed by a physiotherapist. It is also important for patients to perform flexibility, strengthening and core stability exercises to ensure an optimal outcome. The treating physiotherapist can advise which exercises are most appropriate for the patient and when they should be commenced.

Physiotherapy for spinal canal stenosis

Physiotherapy treatment for patients with spinal canal stenosis is important to assist with pain relief, improve flexibility and strength, and to ensure an optimal outcome. This may comprise:

• soft tissue massage
• electrotherapy (e.g. ultrasound)
• mobilization
• traction
• dry needling
• education
• activity modification advice
• prescription of walking aids
• clinical Pilates
• hydrotherapy
• exercises to improve flexibility, strength and core stability

Other intervention for spinal canal stenosis

Despite appropriate physiotherapy management, some patients with this condition continue to deteriorate. When this occurs, other intervention may be required. This may include pharmaceutical intervention, investigations such as an X-ray, CT scan or MRI, corticosteroid injection or assessment from a specialist. The treating physiotherapist can advise on appropriate management and can refer to the appropriate medical authority if it is warranted clinically. In more severe cases of spinal canal stenosis surgery may be required to relieve the pressure on the spinal cord.

Exercises for spinal canal stenosis

The following exercises are commonly prescribed to patients with this condition. You should discuss the suitability of these exercises with your physiotherapist prior to beginning them. Generally, they should be performed 3 times daily and only provided they do not cause or increase symptoms.

Rotation in Lying 

Lie on your back, knees bent, feet flat and together as demonstrated (figure 4). Gently take both knees from side to side as far as possible without increasing your symptoms. Repeat 10 times provided there is no increase in symptoms.

Figure 4 – Rotation in Lying

Knees to Chest 

Lie on your back with your knees bent as demonstrated (figure 5). Take both knees towards your chest as far as possible without increasing your pain. Use your hands to take them a little further provided your symptoms do not increase. Hold for 5 seconds and repeat 10 times.

Figure 5 – Knees to Chest

Physiotherapy products for spinal canal stenosis

Some of the most commonly recommended products by physiotherapists to help patients with this condition include:

1. Back Braces
2. Ice Packs or Heat Packs
3. McKenzie Treat Your Own Back Books
4. TENS Machines (for pain relief)

To purchase a physiotherapy product for spinal canal stenosis, click on one of the above links or visit the PhysioAdvisor Shop.

Find a Physio for spinal canal stenosis

Find a physiotherapist in your local area who can treat spinal canal stenosis.

Other Exercises

• View more Lower Back Flexibility Exercises.
• View Lower Back Strengthening Exercises.
• View Basic Pilates Exercises to improve your posture and core stability.

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