Which specialist treats spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is narrowing around the spinal canal or the openings where nerves leave the spine. A spine specialist reviews your pain pattern, walking tolerance, strength, reflexes and sensation, then matches these findings with imaging when needed. Lower-back pain, radiating leg pain, leg numbness and tingling, or difficulty walking can help show which nerves may be affected. A neurologist or pain-medicine doctor may contribute when nerve symptoms need further assessment.

Start with a family doctor, orthopaedic doctor or spine clinic if you are unsure where to go. Bring a list of medicines, earlier scans and a short record of what brings symptoms on, such as standing or walking, and what relieves them. Treatment may include activity changes, guided physiotherapy, medicines or targeted procedures. Surgery is considered only after examination and discussion of options; possible procedures include decompression when pressure needs relieving.

Arrange a prompt assessment if pain or numbness is worsening, walking becomes noticeably harder, or a leg is losing strength. Seek emergency care for new loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the inner thighs or genitals, or rapidly progressing weakness. These signs can indicate serious nerve compression and should not wait for a routine appointment.

Ask which part of the spine is narrowed, whether your examination matches the scan, and which non-surgical options fit your goals. You can also ask what changes should trigger urgent review, how walking and exercise should be adjusted, and when a surgical opinion would be useful.