Lumbar Spinal Stenosis vs. Lumbar Disc Herniation: How to Tell the Difference and How Chiropractic Can Help
- Dr. Matthew Hannikainen
- 11 hours ago
- 4 min read
Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek care from a chiropractor in Toronto. While there are many possible causes, two of the most frequently misunderstood conditions are lumbar spinal stenosis and lumbar disc herniation. Both affect the lower back, both can cause significant pain, and both may lead to symptoms that radiate down the legs. Yet they are not the same — and knowing the difference can help you choose the right path to recovery.
At The Well Adjusted Chiropractic Centre in downtown Toronto, Dr. Matthew Hannikainen works with patients dealing with both of these conditions. In this article, we’ll explore what each condition is, how to tell them apart, and how chiropractic care can provide relief.
What Is Lumbar Spinal Stenosis?
Lumbar spinal stenosis is a condition where the spinal canal narrows in the lower back, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This narrowing can be due to:
Degenerative changes from aging (arthritis, bone spurs)
Thickened ligaments in the spine
Degeneration of the discs between vertebrae
Common Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis:
Pain, tingling, or weakness in the legs (often worse when standing or walking)
Relief when sitting or leaning forward (the “shopping cart” sign)
Difficulty walking longer distances
Lower back stiffness
Spinal stenosis is often more common in adults over 50, but younger patients with degenerative disc disease can also develop it.
What Is Lumbar Disc Herniation?
A lumbar disc herniation, sometimes called a slipped disc or ruptured disc, occurs when the soft inner portion of a spinal disc pushes through a crack or tear in the outer layer. This herniated material can compress nearby nerves, leading to pain and inflammation.
Common Symptoms of Disc Herniation:
Sharp, shooting pain in the lower back or down the leg (sciatica)
Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
Pain that worsens with coughing, sneezing, or certain movements
Weakness in the muscles served by the affected nerve
Disc herniation can occur at any age but is especially common in adults 30–50 years old. It may result from trauma, heavy lifting, repetitive strain, or simply wear and tear.
How to Tell the Difference Between Spinal Stenosis and Disc Herniation
While both conditions affect the lower back and may cause leg pain, there are some key differences:
Feature | Lumbar Spinal Stenosis | Lumbar Disc Herniation |
Cause | Narrowing of spinal canal (degeneration, arthritis) | Inner disc material pressing on a nerve |
Onset | Gradual, worsens over time | Can be sudden or gradual |
Age Group | More common in 50+ | More common in 30–50 |
Pain Pattern | Leg pain worse with standing/walking, relieved by sitting/leaning forward | Sharp leg pain, worse with bending, coughing, or sneezing |
Weakness | May occur after prolonged standing | May occur suddenly with nerve compression |
If you’re unsure which condition you may be dealing with, our Toronto chiropractor can perform a thorough assessment, including a postural and neurological exam, to help identify the root cause.
When to Seek Chiropractic Care
If you are experiencing:
Persistent or severe lower back pain
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs
Pain that interferes with work, sleep, or daily activities
…it’s time to consult with a professional. Searching for a chiropractor near me in Toronto will connect you with options, but choosing the best chiropractor in Toronto can make a real difference in your recovery journey.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
Chiropractic care does not “cure” stenosis, but it can greatly improve comfort, function, and quality of life. At The Well Adjusted Chiropractic Centre, we use safe, non-invasive strategies to help manage symptoms.
Chiropractic Adjustments: Chiropractic adjustments improve spinal mobility, reduce nerve pressure, and restore spinal balance.
Postural Coaching: Guidance on sitting, standing, and walking strategies to reduce pain and pressure.
Exercise Programs: Targeted exercises to strengthen supporting muscles and improve spinal stability.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help Lumbar Disc Herniation
For disc herniations, chiropractic care focuses on reducing nerve irritation and helping the disc heal naturally.
Spinal Adjustments: Safe, effective chiropractic adjustments restore proper alignment and reduce mechanical stress on the disc.
Lifestyle Advice: Ergonomic guidance, lifting techniques, and activity modifications prevent re-injury.
Rehabilitation Exercises: Core strengthening and stability training help protect the spine long-term.
Why Choose The Well Adjusted Chiropractic Centre in Toronto?
If you’re dealing with back pain and aren’t sure whether it’s spinal stenosis or disc herniation, Dr. Matthew Hannikainen at The Well Adjusted Chiropractic Centre is here to help. As a trusted downtown Toronto chiropractor, Dr. Hannikainen brings years of expertise in diagnosing and treating spinal conditions with natural, non-invasive care.
Patients choose us because:
We offer personalized treatment plans based on your unique condition
We provide excellent chiropractic adjustments for safe, effective care
We are conveniently located in downtown Toronto for easy access
We empower patients with knowledge, tools, and exercises to support long-term spinal health
Take the Next Step Toward Relief
Whether your lower back pain is due to lumbar spinal stenosis or lumbar disc herniation, the most important thing is to take action. Both conditions can worsen without proper care, but with the right chiropractic treatment, many patients experience significant pain relief, improved mobility, and a better quality of life.
Don’t wait until the pain controls your day. Book your consultation today with Dr. Matthew Hannikainen at The Well Adjusted Chiropractic Centre — trusted by patients seeking the best chiropractor in Toronto.
Take the first step toward healing. Your spine — and your future self — will thank you.
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