Causes of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Spinal asymmetry and arthritis are the most common causes of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis, as they contribute to disc degeneration and loss of water content. In children and young adults, spinal discs contain a high percentage of water. As we age, these discs begin to dry out and weaken, leading to reduced disc height and increased pressure on the facet joints—eventually causing their degeneration.

The cartilage covering these joints also wears away, resulting in bone-on-bone contact. In response, the body attempts to compensate by forming new bone—called bone spurs—in the facet joints. These spurs gradually narrow the space within the spinal canal and around the nerve roots.

Additionally, ligament thickening due to arthritis in the lumbar spine can further constrict the space available for nerves. Once this space becomes sufficiently narrow to irritate or compress spinal nerves, painful symptoms develop.

Signs and Symptoms of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Typical symptoms include:

• Increased pain in the legs while walking (neurogenic or pseudoclaudication)

• Relief of pain while sitting or bending forward

• Leg fatigue, heaviness, or weakness

• Tingling, prickling, or numbness in the legs

• Muscle cramps

• Difficulty walking long distances

• Bowel or bladder dysfunction in more severe cases

Symptoms are often bilateral and symmetrical, but may also occur on just one side of the body depending on the severity and location of the nerve compression.

PMC Diagnosis

Diagnosis at a PMC Orthopedic Spine Center begins with:

• A detailed history

• Physical examination

• 3D spinal X-rays to assess asymmetry and structural changes

Depending on the findings, the PMC specialist may also recommend additional diagnostics such as:

• MRI of the lumbar spine (not cervical as in your original text) to evaluate soft tissues and nerve compression

• CT scans or other imaging to assess bony changes and canal narrowing

This comprehensive approach ensures accurate identification of the underlying cause of symptoms.

PMC Treatment

PMC spinal care offers an advanced, non-invasive treatment system for spinal realignment and functional recovery.

PMC treatment works by:

• Re-aligning spinal vertebrae to their optimal, symmetrical position

• Reducing pressure on discs and nerve roots

• Stimulating biosynthesis of disc components and supporting regeneration

• Helping relieve symptoms associated with herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and nerve impingement

A comprehensive PMC treatment plan may include:

• Physiotherapy

• Customized spinal mobilization exercises

• Posture correction and ergonomic guidance

• Lifestyle counseling for long-term spinal health

This holistic approach promotes flexibility, durability, and the return to optimal physical performance.

The PMC Philosophy

PMC therapy activates the body’s natural healing mechanisms by restoring neurological and structural balance. By improving communication between the brain and the affected area, the body is empowered to heal itself—as nature intended.