Spinal stenosis is a degenerative disease of the spine in which the spinal canal narrows. This narrowing leads to compression of the nerve roots and causes typical symptoms such as back pain, restricted mobility, neurogenic claudication, and sensory disturbances. People over the age of 60 are particularly affected: one in five suffers from this painful condition, which significantly impairs quality of life.

In addition to clinical examination, diagnostics primarily include imaging procedures such as MRI and CT scans to accurately determine the extent of the narrowing. Conservative treatments are the first choice and include physical therapy, pain medication, and infiltrations. If symptoms persist or worsen, surgical decompression of the spinal canal is indicated.

The Apex-Spine Spine Center utilizes minimally invasive techniques, including microscopic and endoscopic decompression, which enable effective nerve decompression with minimal stress for the patient. Individualized treatment planning and the extensive experience of our specialists ensure optimal treatment results.

Causes and risk factors of spinal stenosis

The most common causes of spinal stenosis are degenerative changes in the spine, which increase with age. These include:

• Wear and tear of the intervertebral discs: Wear and tear leads to loss of height of the intervertebral discs and
  Narrowing of the canal.
• Thickening of the ligaments and joints: The so-called ligamenta flavum and facet joints can
  thicken and further narrow the canal.
• Herniated discs: Bulges or herniations can also narrow the canal and cause nerves
  compress.
• Changes due to osteoarthritis: Joint wear leads to bony growths (osteophytes), which
  narrow the channel.

Risk factors include age, obesity, lack of exercise, poor posture and previous
Spinal injuries.

Typical symptoms of spinal stenosis

• Back pain that often radiates into the legs.
• Leg pain and numbness when walking or standing, which often subsides when resting
  (so-called “window shopping disease” of the spine).
• Restricted movement and muscle weakness.
• Numbness or tingling in the legs.

These complaints are caused by the compression of the nerves in the narrowed spinal canal and
can severely restrict mobility.

The importance of an accurate diagnosis

A precise diagnosis is essential to determine the cause of the symptoms and plan the optimal treatment. Diagnostics include:

• Clinical examination: recording of symptoms and neurological deficits.
• Imaging techniques: MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and CT (computed tomography) show
  the exact narrowing and affected structures.
• Nerve conduction velocity tests: To assess nerve function.

Only a thorough diagnosis can determine whether conservative treatment is sufficient or whether surgery is necessary. For mild to moderate symptoms, conservative treatment is the initial priority. This includes physical therapy, pain medication, local injections, or acupuncture. These measures aim to relieve pain and maintain mobility. However, if symptoms progress, surgery may be necessary.

When is surgery for spinal stenosis advisable?

Surgical treatment is recommended if:

• The symptoms persist or worsen despite conservative therapy.
• Severe pain and neurological deficits (e.g. muscle weakness, numbness) may occur.
• Mobility is severely restricted and quality of life suffers significantly.

The aim of the operation is to decompress the nerves by widening the spinal canal in order to relieve pain and restore function.

Surgical treatment options at the Apex-Spine Spine Center

The Apex-Spine Spine Center offers state-of-the-art and gentle surgical procedures that are individually tailored to each patient:

• Microscopic decompression: Minimally invasive technique in which the spinal canal is widened under the surgical microscope without stiffening the spine.
• Endoscopic decompression: A particularly gentle procedure in which nerve pressure is relieved through small incisions using a camera. This procedure minimizes tissue damage and promotes faster recovery.
• Avoiding stiffening: Wherever possible, stiffening of the spine is avoided in order to maintain natural mobility.

These specialized techniques enable effective treatment with low risk and rapid rehabilitation.

Why Apex-Spine is the best choice for your spinal health

The Apex-Spine Spine Center is distinguished by its consistent specialization in spinal disorders. The team consists of international experts with decades of experience in spinal surgery. Thanks to state-of-the-art diagnostics and innovative surgical methods, Apex-Spine offers patients treatment of the highest standard.

The close collaboration between experienced surgeons, physiotherapists, and pain therapists guarantees holistic care – from diagnosis to rehabilitation. Patients benefit from customized treatment concepts tailored to their individual needs.