Who treats congenital spinal stenosis at the Paley Institute?

Dr. David Feldman and Dr. Arun Hariharan, fellowship-trained pediatric and spinal deformity surgeons at Paley Orthopedic & Spine Institute, treat congenital spinal stenosis. Their expertise includes complex congenital spine conditions, pediatric and adolescent spinal disorders, and advanced surgical and non-surgical treatments focused on long-term function and quality of life.

What treatment options are available for congenital spinal stenosis?

Treatment depends on symptom severity, neurologic findings, and imaging results. Non-surgical care includes activity modification, physical therapy, medications for pain or inflammation, and careful monitoring with imaging and exams. When symptoms are progressive or neurologic compromise is present, surgery may be recommended, including targeted decompression to create more space for neural structures, advanced techniques designed to preserve stability and motion when possible, and fusion procedures only when necessary for safety or long-term stability. Our surgeons emphasize precision, nerve protection, and long-term function when planning surgery for congenital spinal stenosis.

Congenital Spinal Stenosis

Congenital spinal stenosis is a condition in which a person is born with a spinal canal that is narrower than normal. Because there is less space available for the spinal cord and nerves, even small changes over time—such as growth, disc bulging, or minor degenerative changes—can lead to nerve compression and symptoms earlier in life than expected. Unlike acquired spinal stenosis, which develops later due to aging or wear and tear, congenital spinal stenosis is present from birth and often affects children, adolescents, or young adults.

What causes Congenital Spinal Stenosis

Congenital spinal stenosis results from differences in spinal development before birth. Contributing factors may include:

Shortened pedicles (the bony structures forming the spinal canal)

Congenital vertebral shape variations

Associated skeletal or genetic conditions

Conditions such as skeletal dysplasia or other congenital spine disorders

In many cases, patients are otherwise healthy and unaware of the condition until symptoms develop.

Signs & Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending on the level of the spine involved and the degree of narrowing. Some individuals may have no symptoms early on, while others develop progressive complaints. Common symptoms may include:

Neck, back, or leg pain

Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs

Weakness in the extremities

Difficulty walking or balance problems

Fatigue or heaviness in the legs with activity

In severe cases, changes in coordination or bladder/bowel function

Symptoms may worsen with growth, activity, or additional spinal conditions.

Who treats Congenital Spinal Stenosis

Dr. David Feldman and Dr. Arun Hariharan, are fellowship-trained pediatric and spinal deformity surgeons at Paley Orthopedic & Spine Institute. Their expertise includes complex congenital spine conditions, pediatric and adolescent spinal disorders, and advanced surgical and non-surgical treatments focused on long-term function and quality of life.

Neck, back, or leg pain

Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs

Weakness in the extremities

Difficulty walking or balance problems

Fatigue or heaviness in the legs with activity

In severe cases, changes in coordination or bladder/bowel function

Symptoms may worsen with growth, activity, or additional spinal conditions.

Who treats Congenital Spinal Stenosis

Dr. David Feldman

Associate Director

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Dr. Arun Hariharan

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon

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Treatment Options

Treatment depends on symptom severity, neurologic findings, and imaging results.

Non-surgical care

Activity modification

Physical therapy

Medications for pain or inflammation

Careful monitoring with imaging and exams

When symptoms are progressive or neurologic compromise is present, surgery may be recommended to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. Surgical options may include:

Surgical care

Targeted decompression to create more space for neural structures

Advanced techniques designed to preserve stability and motion when possible

Fusion procedures only when necessary for safety or long-term stability

Our surgeons emphasize precision, nerve protection, and long-term function when planning surgery for congenital spinal stenosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Congenital Spinal Stenosis inherited?

It can be associated with genetic or developmental conditions, but many patients have no family history.

Will symptoms get worse over time?

Not always, but progression can occur, especially during growth or with additional spinal changes. Regular follow-up is important.

Does everyone with congenital spinal stenosis need surgery?

No. Many patients are managed without surgery. Surgery is reserved for those with significant symptoms or neurologic risk.

Can children and athletes return to sports?

Yes, in many cases. Return to activity depends on symptoms, treatment type, and spinal stability, and is guided carefully by the surgeon.

Schedule Your Appointment

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Feldman or Dr. Hariharan. Both physicians see patients at our West Palm Beach location, and Dr. Hariharan also treats patients in our Boca Raton office.

Congenital Spinal Stenosis

What causes Congenital Spinal Stenosis

Signs & Symptoms

Who treats Congenital Spinal Stenosis

Who treats Congenital Spinal Stenosis

Dr. David Feldman

Dr. Arun Hariharan

Treatment Options

Non-surgical care

Surgical care

Frequently Asked Questions

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Boca Raton Location

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