Spinal stenosis is a condition of nerve compression due to wear and tear that usually occurs in the lower back. The patients have calf or thigh pain or cramping feeling after walking a certain distance. Sometimes it is severe enough that force them to stop and sit down. When sitting the pain goes away very quickly. Majority of spinal stenosis can be treated without surgery. When is surgery indicated in spinal stenosis?

The purpose of surgery is to free up the nerve from compression. This surgery is routinely done by spine surgeons. Sometimes, implants are used if the spine is not stable or potentially unstable after surgery. This operation called decompression and fusion surgery. Otherwise, the surgery can be done without putting in implants or also known as decompression laminectomy.

Generally, the symptoms improve very quickly after the operation. The walking distance increases significantly. The patients can walk longer and feel more comfortable. If you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to assist you.

Author: Dr Tony Setiobudi BMedSci, MBBS, MRCS, MMed (Ortho), FRCS (Ortho), Orthopaedic & Spine Surgeon, Mount Elizabeth Hospital (Orchard), Singapore