Spinal stenosis causes a narrowing of the space/tunnel that shelters the nerve, eventually pinching the nerve. The resulting leg pain can be quite severe. Unfortunately, epidural steroid injections (pain blocking injections) offer only very temporary relief. Permanent nerve blocks are not an option because the nerve is still important for important things like walking.

Newer, surgical procedures are now available like X-stop which relieve the pressure on the nerve. Older technology, decompression surgeries are still a good option also.

Of course, surgery is risky. So some people prefer medications to control pain. The best medications address the nerve pain. Physical therapy can also be useful to teach some you some tricks. For example, in the morning, you may want to try pulling both knees to your chest. This position usually relieves some of the nerve pain. When sleeping on your back, elevate your legs on some pillows as high as possible (hips and knees are both bent).

Discuss these options with your doctor, but do not expect a magic wand.

Dr. Christina Lasich, MD