Spinal Stenosis Specialist in Los Angeles

Spinal stenosis is a condition in which the spaces within your spine narrow, putting pressure on the nerves that travel through the spine. It usually occurs in the lower back and neck, often leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs, arms, or back. This condition is typically caused by age-related changes in the spine, such as arthritis or herniated discs, but can also result from injury or congenital factors.

At the Global Brain & Spine Institute, Dr. Christopher A. Sarkiss, a leading spine surgeon and spinal stenosis specialist in Los Angeles, provides individualized care to address symptoms with long-term outcomes.

Treatment Options

Treatment options can include physical therapy, pain management, or minimally invasive surgical procedures designed to relieve pressure and restore mobility. Our goal is to help you return to the activities you love, free from chronic discomfort.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of spinal stenosis, schedule a consultation to explore effective solutions tailored to your needs.

Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis

mptoms vary depending on the location and severity of nerve compression. The most notable symptoms include

Lumbar spinal stenosis may also cause neurogenic claudication. This condition involves pain or heaviness in the legs. Symptoms tend to worsen with walking but improve with rest.

Spinal Stenosis Treatment Options

For mild cases of spinal stenosis, treatment often begins with conservative care. However, if symptoms progress or involve neurological function, surgical treatment may be indicated.

Observation and Conservative Management

Mild or early spinal stenosis may not require surgery. Importantly, spinal stenosis does not resolve on its own. The goal with conservative approaches is to control symptoms and slow degeneration. With that in mind, conservative measures do produce notable benefits for appropriate patients.

Conservative treatment options for spinal stenosis may include:

Minimally Invasive Decompression

Hospital Stay: Outpatient or 1 day

Minimally invasive decompression is one of the most common surgical treatments for spinal stenosis. Dr. Sarkiss removes small portions of bone or thickened ligament to create additional space for the spinal canal. Doing so relieves compression on the spinal nerves.

Advantages

Laminectomy (Open Decompression)

Hospital Stay: : 1–3 days

Laminectomy is a more traditional surgical procedure that we use for moderate to severe spinal stenosis. The surgery gets its name from how it involves removing part of the lamina. This is the back portion of the vertebra that covers the spinal canal. Removing a portion of it creates more space for the spinal cord and nerve roots. Though more involved, the procedure can provide significant improvements in mobility and symptom control.

Indications:

Spinal Stenosis FAQs

Can spinal stenosis improve without surgery?

On the one hand, symptoms can certainly improve. Spinal stenosis itself can not be repaired without surgery. Still, many patients with mild cases can see significant improvements with measures like:

Physical therapy
Anti-inflammatory medications
Epidural steroid injections

How long does recovery take after spinal stenosis surgery?

Recovery time varies depending on the procedure performed. Minimally invasive decompression has the shortest recovery timeframe. For most patients, this means a return to light activity within 2–4 weeks. Recovery after more extensive surgery, such as spinal fusion, can take several months. When creating a procedure plan, Dr. Sarkiss will provide details on what timeframe to expect.

What symptoms suggest spinal stenosis is worsening?

Symptoms that may indicate progression include increasing:

Leg pain while walking
Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
Muscle weakness
Balance problems
Difficulty standing or walking for long periods
Loss of bladder or bowel control (rare but serious)

If you notice any of these symptoms, they can merit prompt evaluation by a spine specialist.

Is spinal stenosis more common in older adults?

Spinal stenosis most commonly develops in adults over age 50. With age, the spine undergoes natural deterioration, which can increase risk. As discs lose height and ligaments thicken, the spinal canal can gradually narrow. Taking steps early on can help slow rates of degeneration to promote better long-term outcomes and delay surgical intervention.

Can spinal stenosis return after treatment?

Symptoms may recur if spinal degeneration continues. Additionally, other levels of the spine may also become affected. However, most patients experience long-lasting relief with expert-guided interventions.

Factors that help improve long-term outcomes include:

Working with an experienced spine surgeon
Maintaining a healthy weight
Strengthening core and spinal muscles
Following postoperative rehabilitation instructions
Avoiding smoking

What is rehabilitation like after spinal stenosis treatment?

Rehabilitation may be recommended for patients who had a more severe condition or certain procedures. Each case is decided individually based on your spinal health and procedure details. A recovery program may include:

Physical therapy
Core strengthening exercises
Mobility and flexibility training
Posture and ergonomics education
Gradual return to daily activities

Spondylosis and Spondylolisthesis

Spondylosis and spondylolisthesis are two common spinal conditions that can cause persistent back or neck pain. Spondylosis is an age-related degeneration in the spine, including disc thinning, bone spurs, and joint stiffness. It often leads to discomfort, reduced mobility, or nerve irritation.

Spondylolisthesis is a structural issue, typically in the lower back. It happens when one vertebra slips over another, and it may result from injury, stress fractures, or degenerative changes. Symptoms of both conditions can include pain, numbness, or weakness in the back, legs, or arms.

Treatment Options

Treatment options include physical therapy, pain management, and minimally invasive surgical techniques. Whether your symptoms stem from wear and tear or vertebral instability, we’re committed to helping you find relief and regain mobility with compassionate, expert care.

Spine Tumors

Spine tumors are abnormal growths that develop within or around the spinal cord and vertebrae. They may be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and can originate in the spine or spread from other parts of the body.

Spine tumors can cause back pain, neurological symptoms like numbness or weakness, and even affect bladder or bowel function. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent long-term complications.

Treatment Options

At our practice, we use advanced imaging and diagnostic tools to accurately identify spinal tumors and develop a personalized treatment plan. Options include monitoring, medication, radiation therapy, or surgery, often minimally invasive to reduce risk and recovery time. Our goal is to relieve pressure on the spinal cord, preserve neurological function, and improve your quality of life.

If you’re experiencing back pain or neurological symptoms, schedule a consultation.

Spine Hemorrhage

A spine hemorrhage is a rare but serious condition involving bleeding within or around the spinal cord. It can result from trauma, vascular malformations, tumors, or certain medical conditions that affect blood vessels or clotting.

Depending on the location of the bleed (epidural, subdural, subarachnoid, or intramedullary), it may put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, leading to symptoms such as sudden back pain, weakness, numbness, or even paralysis. We use advanced imaging like MRI and CT scans to identify the source and severity of the bleeding.

Treatment Options

Treatment may include emergency surgery to relieve pressure, manage the bleeding, and prevent permanent damage. Our experienced team is equipped to provide rapid, compassionate care for spinal emergencies, with the goal of preserving function and improving outcomes.

If you experience sudden neurological symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves sideways, often in an “S” or “C” shape. While it can develop at any age, it most commonly appears during adolescence. Some cases are mild and cause no noticeable symptoms, while others may lead to back pain, uneven shoulders or hips, and postural changes. In more severe cases, scoliosis can affect lung or heart function due to pressure on the chest cavity.

Treatment Options

Depending on the severity and progression of the curve, treatment options can involve observation, bracing, physical therapy, or surgery. For advanced cases, we offer spinal fusion and other corrective procedures using minimally invasive techniques. Our goal is to improve spinal alignment, reduce discomfort, and help patients maintain an active, healthy lifestyle.

If you or your child shows signs of scoliosis, early assessment is key. Start with a consultation with Dr. Sarkiss for diagnosis and treatment plans.

Spinal Cord Compression

Spinal cord compression occurs when there is pressure on the spinal cord, often due to conditions such as herniated discs, tumors, spinal fractures, or degenerative diseases like arthritis. This pressure can lead to symptoms such as back or neck pain, numbness, weakness, tingling, or even loss of bladder and bowel control in severe cases.

Treatment Options

Treatment options vary depending on the underlying issue and may include medications, physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, or surgical procedures to relieve pressure and stabilize the spine. Our expert team is committed to restoring function, relieving pain, and preserving your quality of life.

If you are experiencing unexplained neurological symptoms or persistent spinal pain, we encourage you to schedule an evaluation.

Spinal Cord Injury

A spinal cord injury occurs when trauma or disease damages the spinal cord, disrupting the communication between the brain and the body. Injuries can result in total or partial loss of function below the injury. Causes include accidents, falls, sports injuries, and medical conditions like infections or tumors.

Treatment Options

Treatment includes advanced diagnostics, surgical intervention when needed, and coordinated rehabilitation to help maximize function and independence. Our compassionate team works closely with patients and their families to develop personalized treatment plans that focus on recovery, support, and improving quality of life.

If you or a loved one has experienced a spinal injury, early intervention is critical for the best outcome.

Spine Fractures & Compression Fractures

Spine fractures, particularly compression fractures, occur when one or more vertebrae break or collapse due to trauma, osteoporosis, cancer, or other spinal conditions. These fractures most commonly affect the thoracic (mid-back) or lumbar (lower back) spine. They can cause sudden back pain, limited mobility, height loss, or spinal deformity such as a hunched posture. Dr. Sarkiss specializes in diagnosing and treating spinal fractures with precision and care.

Treatment Options

After a thorough evaluation using imaging such as X-rays or MRI, Dr. Sarkiss develops a customized treatment plan based on the severity of the fracture and your overall health. Options may include bracing, pain management, physical therapy, and minimally invasive procedures like vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty to stabilize the spine and relieve pain. Our goal is to restore spinal stability, reduce discomfort, and help you return to your normal activities safely and confidently.

Failed Back Syndrome

Failed back syndrome (FBS), also known as failed back surgery syndrome, refers to persistent or recurring pain following spine surgery. Despite technically successful procedures, some patients continue to experience back or leg pain due to scar tissue, nerve damage, spinal instability, or unresolved issues at adjacent levels of the spine.

Living with chronic pain after surgery can be frustrating and disheartening. At our practice, we take a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to evaluating and managing failed back syndrome.

Treatment Options

Through advanced imaging, nerve studies, and clinical assessments, we identify the underlying cause of your pain and tailor a treatment plan to your unique needs. Options may include physical therapy, pain management, spinal cord stimulation, or revision surgery if appropriate. Our goal is to reduce pain, restore function, and help you regain a better quality of life.

If you’re still struggling after spine surgery, we’re here to offer expert guidance and renewed hope.

Flatback Syndrome

Flatback syndrome is a condition where the natural curve of the lower spine (lumbar lordosis) is reduced or lost, causing the spine to appear straight and forcing the upper body to lean forward. This imbalance can lead to chronic back pain, fatigue, difficulty standing upright, and limited mobility. It often results from previous spinal surgeries, degenerative disc disease, or congenital spine conditions.

Treatment Options

Using advanced imaging and posture analysis, we evaluate the extent of the spinal imbalance and create a personalized treatment plan. Nonsurgical options may include physical therapy, posture training, and pain management. In more advanced cases, surgical correction may be necessary to restore proper spinal alignment and improve function. Our goal is to reduce pain, improve balance, and help you return to daily activities with greater ease and comfort.