Lumbar spinal stenosis is a condition that affects the low back, typically leading to leg symptoms such as pain, numbness, weakness, and/or cramping. The most common cause of symptoms is age related changes in the spine leading to narrowing of openings where the nerves exit. As a result, this condition most commonly affects older adults over the age of 65. Individuals with lumbar spinal stenosis typically report aggravation of symptoms when they walk or stand, and note relief when resting and sitting.

Lumbar spinal stenosis can be treated through conservative treatments or surgical treatment. It is now recommended that the first line treatment for patients with lumbar spinal stenosis is a comprehensive conservative management approach consisting of manual therapy, exercise, and education on self-management. The 6-week program that Dr. Plener administers at Mount Sinai Hospital is an evidence-based approach that has helped inform current treatment guidelines. After completing this program, 85% of individuals report significant improvements in their walking and standing abilities.

Low back and neck pain are leading causes of disability worldwide. Patients suffering from these conditions deal with pain that can significantly impact their daily activities. Unfortunately, individuals with these conditions typically suffer symptom recurrence over time.

The recommended treatment for these conditions is a comprehensive multimodal treatment approach. Dr. Plener tailors his treatment to your specific needs and provides hands-on care as well as exercises and self-management strategies. Dr. Plener takes an approach that is rooted in educating his patients to ensure they understand how to maximize their function and reduce their suffering. Low back and neck pain cannot be cured but it can be managed effectively!

Lumbar radiculopathy is a condition that results in inflammation and/or compression of the nerves that exit the low back and go to your leg. This results in significant leg pain, numbness and/or weakness, which can negatively impact your ability to carry out daily activities.

A conservative management approach is suggested in order to reduce the irritation to the nerve. Most cases of lumbar radiculopathy will recover within weeks to months. However, during this time symptoms can be very severe and difficult to manage. Dr. Plener takes a methodical approach to his treatment of lumbar radiculopathy, in order to provide you with an effective treatment plan and self-management strategies to make your day to day activities easier.

Cervical stenosis is a narrowing of the openings in the neck where the nerves exit. Most commonly this results in a condition called cervical radiculopathy, typically leading to neck and arm pain. This condition most often affects middle aged individuals and can significantly impact their daily activities and sleep. Dr. Plener led a study investigating the experiences of individuals with cervical radiculopathy in order to bring to light the impact that this condition has on the lives of many.

Cervical radiculopathy is most commonly treated through conservative measures including manual therapy, exercise, nerve mobilization, and education on self-management. Currently, Dr. Plener is leading a research project to refine a conservative program of care in order to address individual needs and expectations.