Minimally Invasive Relief from Nerve and Spinal Cord Compression by Dr. Rajesh Bindal
Spinal stenosis is a condition that occurs when the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots. It can affect the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), or lumbar (lower back) spine. At Texas Spine & Neurosurgery, Dr. Rajesh Bindal, a board-certified neurosurgeon in Sugar Land, TX, specializes in both non-surgical and surgical treatments, including minimally invasive spine surgery for spinal stenosis.
What Causes Spinal Stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is commonly caused by age-related degenerative changes, such as:
- Bone spurs (osteophytes)
- Thickening of spinal ligaments
- Bulging or herniated discs
- Degenerative spondylolisthesis (slippage of vertebrae)
In some cases, individuals are born with a congenitally narrow spinal canal (congenital stenosis), making them more prone to symptoms even with mild degeneration. Genetic predisposition can also play a role.
Symptoms of Spinal Cord and Nerve Compression
Cervical Stenosis (Neck Region)
- Neck pain radiating to the arms
- Arm or hand weakness, numbness, or tingling
- Loss of coordination, fine motor control, or handwriting changes
- Leg weakness, balance issues, or gait instability
- In severe cases: risk of progressive spinal cord injury or paralysis
Note: Spinal cord compression in the neck is typically not treated conservatively unless symptoms are very mild. Surgery is often necessary to prevent permanent damage.
Lumbar Stenosis (Lower Back)
- Radiculopathy: leg pain, numbness, or weakness due to nerve root compression
- Neurogenic claudication: pain or heaviness in the legs that worsens with standing or walking, but improves when sitting or leaning forward (e.g., pushing a shopping cart)
Diagnosis of Spinal Stenosis
- MRI is the most effective imaging method to evaluate spinal stenosis
- In some cases, CT scans or X-rays may be used to assess bone structures and instability
- Evaluation includes a detailed physical exam and neurological assessment by Dr. Rajesh Bindal
Treatment Options for Spinal Stenosis
Non-Surgical Care
- Physical therapy to improve posture and core strength
- Anti-inflammatory medications and muscle relaxants
- Epidural steroid injections for temporary relief
- Activity modification and short periods of rest
Conservative treatments may provide symptom relief but do not reverse the spinal canal narrowing and may become less effective over time.
Surgical Treatment for Spinal Stenosis
When symptoms persist or worsen, surgical decompression is often required. The procedure involves:
- Removing bone spurs, thickened ligaments, and disc material
- Widening the spinal canal to relieve pressure on nerves and the spinal cord
- Referred to as laminectomy or laminoplasty, depending on the spinal region and condition
In cases of spinal instability (such as spondylolisthesis), spinal fusion may also be performed to stabilize the spine.
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery for Spinal Stenosis
Dr. Rajesh Bindal and his team have performed more minimally invasive lumbar spine surgeries than any other practice in the Greater Houston Area. Benefits of this approach include:
- Smaller incisions and less tissue disruption
- Lower post-operative pain and faster recovery
- Shorter hospital stays, often outpatient or one-night stays
- Reduced blood loss and infection risk
Whenever possible, Dr. Bindal uses minimally invasive techniques to treat spinal stenosis while preserving spinal stability and function.
Schedule Your Spinal Stenosis Consultation in Sugar Land, TX
If you’re experiencing symptoms of spinal stenosis such as back pain, leg weakness, or difficulty walking, early diagnosis and treatment can prevent permanent nerve damage. Trust Dr. Rajesh Bindal for expert care and advanced surgical solutions.
Call Texas Spine & Neurosurgery at 281-313-0031 to schedule your consultation in Sugar Land, TX.