Spinal Stenosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses the spinal cord and nerve roots. It most commonly occurs in the lower back (lumbar) or neck (cervical).
At AlterPhysio Amsterdam, we provide evidence-based non-surgical treatment for spinal stenosis. In addition, we help patients manage symptoms and maintain an active life.
Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis
Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
In addition, The most characteristic symptom of lumbar stenosis is neurogenic claudication. This is leg pain, weakness, or cramping that comes on with walking and is relieved by bending forward.
Moreover, patients often find cycling more comfortable than walking. This is because forward flexion of the spine temporarily opens the spinal canal.
Cervical Spinal Stenosis
Cervical stenosis can cause neck pain, arm pain, and in severe cases, balance problems. Weakness or clumsiness in the hands is a warning sign that requires prompt assessment.
Furthermore, early physiotherapy intervention can prevent progression in many cases. Maintaining neck mobility and strength is essential.
Physiotherapy for Spinal Stenosis
Flexion-Based Exercise
Exercises that flex the lumbar spine open the spinal canal and reduce nerve compression. These movements are the foundation of stenosis physiotherapy.
Additionally, aquatic physiotherapy and cycling are ideal low-impact activities. They allow patients to remain active while managing pain.
Core and Postural Training
Furthermore, A strong, well-coordinated core reduces the compressive load on the stenotic spine. We design specific programmes that strengthen without aggravating nerve compression.
Therefore, patients with spinal stenosis can significantly improve their walking distance. Many avoid or delay surgery with consistent physiotherapy.
Manual Therapy
Joint mobilisation and soft tissue therapy reduce the pain and stiffness of spinal stenosis. They improve quality of movement and reduce protective muscle guarding.
Pain Management Strategies
As a result, We advise on activity modification to maximise what you can do. Walking aids, posture supports, and pacing strategies are part of our holistic approach.
Beyond this, acupuncture provides effective pain relief without medication side effects. It is a valuable tool for managing the chronic pain of spinal stenosis.
Book Your Spinal Stenosis Consultation in Amsterdam
Spinal stenosis does not mean the end of an active life. Our Amsterdam physiotherapy team will help you stay mobile and pain-free.
nWritten by Hidekazu Kuwabara, Registered Physiotherapist (BIG-registered, Amsterdam)
Hidekazu has over 10 years of clinical experience in physiotherapy and acupuncture. He specialises in musculoskeletal pain, sports injuries, and integrative East-West medicine at Alter Physio & Acupuncture, Amsterdam.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health or treatment.
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Written by Hidekazu Kuwabara, Registered Physiotherapist (BIG-registered, Amsterdam)
Hidekazu has over 10 years of clinical experience in physiotherapy and acupuncture. He specialises in musculoskeletal pain, sports injuries, and integrative East-West medicine at Alter Physio & Acupuncture, Amsterdam.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health or treatment.
Written by Hidekazu Kuwabara, Registered Physiotherapist (BIG-registered, Amsterdam)
Hidekazu has over 10 years of clinical experience in physiotherapy and acupuncture. He specialises in musculoskeletal pain, sports injuries, and integrative East-West medicine at Alter Physio & Acupuncture, Amsterdam.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health or treatment.
Written by Hidekazu Kuwabara, Registered Physiotherapist (BIG-registered, Amsterdam)
Hidekazu has over 10 years of clinical experience in physiotherapy and acupuncture. He specialises in musculoskeletal pain, sports injuries, and integrative East-West medicine at Alter Physio & Acupuncture, Amsterdam.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health or treatment.
Written by Hidekazu Kuwabara, Registered Physiotherapist (BIG-registered, Amsterdam)
Hidekazu has over 10 years of clinical experience in physiotherapy and acupuncture. He specialises in musculoskeletal pain, sports injuries, and integrative East-West medicine at Alter Physio & Acupuncture, Amsterdam.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health or treatment.
Written by Hidekazu Kuwabara, Registered Physiotherapist (BIG-registered, Amsterdam)
Hidekazu has over 10 years of clinical experience in physiotherapy and acupuncture. He specialises in musculoskeletal pain, sports injuries, and integrative East-West medicine at Alter Physio & Acupuncture, Amsterdam.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health or treatment.
Written by Hidekazu Kuwabara, Registered Physiotherapist (BIG-registered, Amsterdam)
Hidekazu has over 10 years of clinical experience in physiotherapy and acupuncture. He specialises in musculoskeletal pain, sports injuries, and integrative East-West medicine at Alter Physio & Acupuncture, Amsterdam.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health or treatment.



