Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis refers to the narrowing of spaces within the spine, which puts pressure on the spinal nerves traveling through the spinal canal. This condition is usually caused by degenerative changes such as arthritis, herniated discs, or thickened ligaments, and most commonly affects the cervical (neck) and lumbar spine regions. For individuals seeking comprehensive spine care, early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent progression. Advanced imaging tests are often used to diagnose spinal stenosis and guide treatment. 

Symptoms of spinal stenosis include back pain, neck pain, numbness or weakness in the arms or legs, and, in severe cases, issues with balance or bowel control. These symptoms can significantly impact daily activities, making it difficult to walk, stand, or enjoy an active lifestyle. Patients may also experience leg numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness that interferes with everyday tasks.

Finding the right specialist is key to effective treatment. Here’s how the specialties differ:

• Neurosurgeons focus on conditions affecting the nervous system, including your brain, spinal cord, and nerve roots. They are highly skilled in treating complex cases of spinal stenosis involving nerve compression.
• Orthopedic surgeons specialize in structural issues, working to restore alignment and reduce pain through surgical or nonsurgical methods.
• Interventional pain management physicians provide nonsurgical options, such as injections, to alleviate discomfort and improve mobility. 

Consulting an independent spinal practice offers the added benefit of unbiased, patient-centered care. Without ties to a specific hospital system, independent practices can tailor treatment plans to your unique needs and collaborate across specialties to ensure the best possible outcomes. Whether you’re seeking a spine specialist in Greensburg, Indiana, or a trusted back specialist in Indianapolis, an independent practice like Goodman Campbell can provide the comprehensive expertise and flexibility needed to deliver the right care at the right time.

At Goodman Campbell, we bring together neurosurgeons, interventional pain management physicians, and interventional neuroradiologists under one roof to offer state-of-the-art, collaborative care across Indiana. With locations in Indianapolis and across Central Indiana, we are here to provide access to the best spine surgeons in Indiana.

If chronic back pain, numbness, or difficulty walking are interfering with your daily life, it’s time to consult a specialist. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen; early intervention ensures better outcomes. Ask your doctor about Goodman Campbell to discuss personalized care options.

Nonsurgical Treatments

For many patients, nonsurgical options provide effective relief from back, neck, or nerve-related symptoms, especially for those seeking spinal stenosis treatment. These include:

• Working with a physical therapist to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.
• Medications like anti-inflammatories or muscle relaxants to manage pain.
• Pain injections, which reduce inflammation and provide short-term relief. 

At Goodman Campbell, our team of specialists in pain management in Carmel, Indiana, as well as across our other locations, play a vital role in delivering targeted, nonsurgical relief. These experts work closely with our surgical and therapy teams to create customized care plans that reduce pain and improve function, often avoiding the need for surgery altogether.

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

• Micro Lumbar Discectomy and Laminectomy are options for removing small portions of vertebral bone or soft tissue to relieve nerve compression.
• These minimally invasive techniques use smaller incisions, which means faster recovery, less scarring, and lower risk compared to traditional methods.

Advanced Surgical Options

For severe cases, advanced procedures like lumbar decompression or spinal fusion (posterior, lateral, or anterior approaches) might be necessary. These surgeries are recommended when the spinal canal shrinks significantly and leads to severe pain or neurological deficits.

The experts at Goodman Campbell use the latest technology — including intraoperative navigation, robotics, and high-resolution imaging — to ensure safe, precise outcomes in every procedure. From diagnosis through recovery, our independent spine care model prioritizes accuracy, innovation, and patient-centered results.

Spinal stenosis prognosis varies depending on the severity of the condition and how early it’s addressed. Spinal stenosis isn’t always a permanent disability; while symptoms can become chronic if left untreated, individualized treatment can significantly slow progression and even reverse some of its impacts. With the right care plan, many patients are able to manage their condition effectively and avoid surgical intervention.

With early intervention and proper care, many patients experience substantial improvements in mobility and overall quality of life. Success stories from Goodman Campbell’s patients highlight that, with the right treatment at the right time, chronic back pain doesn’t have to control your life.

Healthy lifestyle choices for spinal stenosis prevention

While spinal stenosis cannot always be prevented, adopting proactive habits can play a key role in spinal stenosis prevention and overall spinal health. Certain lifestyle modifications can help lower the risk or slow the progression of the condition. These include: 

• Exercising regularly to maintain core strength and spinal mobility.
• Weight management to reduce strain on the spine.
• Practicing proper posture to avoid unnecessary wear and tear on your spine.

Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can also contribute to spinal stenosis, so managing those conditions is important in prevention and care.

Why are regular follow-ups important?

Routine check-ins with a spine specialist ensure that any changes in your condition are detected and managed early.

The Goodman Campbell team pioneers personalized treatment plans, which combine ongoing monitoring, data-driven care adjustments, and a patient-first approach. This ensures you receive care tailored to your specific needs, giving you the tools to protect your spinal health for years to come.

When it comes to your spinal health, you deserve the best. Goodman Campbell provides everything you need under one roof:

• Collaborative care from world-class, sub-specialized neurosurgeons and interventional pain management specialists.
• Locations across the state, including Columbus, Carmel, Greenwood, Avon, and Indianapolis, to ensure convenient access to premium care.
• A commitment to cutting-edge technology and innovations that prioritize your safety and results.

Whether you’re seeking a back specialist in Indianapolis or the best spine surgeon in Indiana, our expert team is here to help. Request an appointment at Goodman Campbell to get on a path forward for your back and spine health.