CONDITION
Spinal Stenosis
(Narrowing of the Spine)
Spinal stenosis happens when the spaces within your spine narrow, putting pressure on the nerves that travel through the spinal canal. This can cause pain, tingling, weakness, or numbness in your back, legs, arms, or shoulders, depending on where the narrowing occurs. At Silver Pain Centre in Toronto, we provide OHIP-covered consultations and advanced, minimally invasive treatments to reduce nerve compression, restore mobility, and help you return to daily activities with less pain.
What is Spinal Stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is a common age-related spine condition where the spinal canal narrows and compresses nearby nerves. While it most often develops in the lower back (lumbar spine) or neck (cervical spine), it can affect any region of the spine. The result can be pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or difficulty walking and balancing.
Common signs include:
Pain that worsens with standing or walking, but improves when sitting or leaning forward
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs, arms, or shoulders
Cramping or heaviness in the legs
Balance issues or reduced endurance when walking
Why Does Spinal Stenosis Occur?
Spinal stenosis most often develops slowly over time, as natural wear and tear changes the structures of the spine. These changes gradually narrow the spinal canal, placing pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. While aging is the most common factor, several specific conditions can contribute:
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Degenerative Disc Disease: As spinal discs lose water content with age, they become thinner and less effective at cushioning the vertebrae. Discs may bulge or herniate, pressing into the spinal canal and reducing space for nerves.
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Arthritis and Bone Spurs: Osteoarthritis can break down the protective cartilage in spinal joints. In response, the body sometimes forms bony growths (spurs) that extend into the spinal canal and further narrow nerve passageways.
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Thickened Ligaments: The ligaments that help stabilize the spine can thicken and stiffen over time. When they enlarge, they may push inward and crowd the spinal canal, adding to nerve compression.
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Spinal Injuries or Surgery: Trauma from accidents, falls, or previous back surgeries can cause inflammation, bone fractures, or scar tissue that shifts the alignment of the spine or reduces available space for nerves.
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Congenital Narrow Canal: Some people are born with a smaller-than-average spinal canal. Even mild age-related changes can trigger symptoms sooner in these cases, making them more vulnerable to developing spinal stenosis earlier in life.
At Silver Pain Centre, we look beyond temporary relief. We identify the specific nerve and structure involved so treatment is precise and progress is measurable.
How We Diagnose & Treat at Silver Pain Centre
Your care begins with a detailed history and neurological exam. We may use MRI, CT, or X-ray imaging to pinpoint the exact location and severity of narrowing. Based on your results, we design a treatment plan that may include:
Epidural Steroid Injections to reduce inflammation around compressed nerves
Selective Nerve Blocks to identify and calm irritated nerve roots
Facet Joint Blocks & Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) for pain linked to arthritic joints
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) for persistent leg pain that resists standard care
Neuromuscular Stimulation & Rehab Guidance to support safe movement and recovery
When to Seek Help & How We Can Support You
Mild stenosis symptoms may improve with rest, stretching, and posture changes. But if your pain worsens with walking or standing, or you develop numbness, weakness, or trouble balancing, it’s time for specialized care. Without treatment, spinal stenosis can limit mobility and reduce quality of life.
At Silver Pain Centre, we provide comprehensive, OHIP-covered consultations designed to help you find lasting relief. Here’s how we make a difference:
Collaborative Care
Fast Access
Advanced Diagnostics
Our North York facility uses imaging such as MRI, ultrasound, and fluoroscopy to pinpoint the exact source of your pain.
Non-Surgical Options
From image-guided injections to advanced nerve stimulation, we provide targeted relief without major surgery.
Interventional pain procedures performed to date
Years of specialized pain management experience
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Patient-reported satisfaction based on post-visit surveys
Image-guided injections performed monthly
Explore Our Full Range of Pain Management Solutions
Learn about our pain management treatments and explore the options available at Silver Pain Centre.
Book A Consultation By Completing A Self-Referral Today!
If you’re living with spinal stenosis and struggling with back pain, leg weakness, or nerve compression symptoms, don’t wait. The team at Silver Pain Centre will review your self-referral within 72 hours and schedule an OHIP-covered consultation to get you on the path to relief. Appointments are available in person or virtually.