What Is Lumbar Spinal Stenosis?
Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is a condition in which the spaces within the lower spine narrow, placing pressure on the spinal nerves. It is most common in adults over 50 and tends to develop gradually as a result of age-related changes to the discs, joints, and ligaments of the spine.
The most recognizable symptom is neurogenic claudication: pain, cramping, or weakness in the legs that worsens with walking or prolonged standing and typically improves when bending forward or sitting. Many patients also experience low back pain, numbness, or a progressive reduction in walking tolerance that limits their daily activity.
How Durham Spine & Sports Clinic Treats Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
Durham Spine & Sports Clinic offers the LSS Bootcamp, a structured, research-validated treatment program developed by Dr. Carlo Ammendolia of Mount Sinai Hospital and the University of Toronto. The program is designed to improve walking tolerance, reduce pain, and build the skills patients need to manage their condition long-term, without surgery.
Dr. Alykhan Jamal, BA(Hon), DC, CSCS, is certified to deliver Dr. Ammendolia's bootcamp protocol and brings additional training as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, which directly informs how exercise prescription is integrated into each patient's program. His intake process includes a full orthopaedic and neurological assessment before treatment begins, and every step of the care plan is explained in plain terms. For patients whose presentation warrants it, Dr. Jamal may also incorporate non-surgical spinal decompression alongside the bootcamp work.
What to Expect From the LSS Bootcamp
Step 1: Initial Assessment
Step 2: Structured Treatment Program
Step 3: Home Program and Long-Term Self-Management
What Patients Typically Experience
Patients completing the LSS Bootcamp at Durham Spine & Sports Clinic commonly report:
- Increased walking tolerance and a reduction in leg cramping and fatigue
- Less reliance on rest stops, walking aids, or postural compensation strategies
- Greater confidence in managing their condition independently day to day
Results vary based on the severity of stenosis and baseline function, but meaningful improvement in walking tolerance is the most consistent outcome reported in both clinical research and local practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
For many patients, yes. The program was developed as a non-surgical alternative, and clinical research by Dr. Ammendolia supports meaningful functional improvements without surgical intervention. Dr. Jamal will discuss candidacy at your initial assessment.
The bootcamp is most effective for adults over 50 with a confirmed or suspected diagnosis of lumbar spinal stenosis, particularly those with neurogenic claudication limiting walking or standing. It is also appropriate for patients who have had prior back surgery but continue to experience symptoms.
The LSS Bootcamp follows a specific validated clinical protocol with defined outcomes and a structured take-home component, rather than a general course of chiropractic adjustments. It is a condition-specific program, not an open-ended treatment plan.
Yes. Durham Spine & Sports Clinic direct bills most extended health insurance plans. Patients are encouraged to confirm their specific coverage prior to starting the program.
Start Your Spinal Stenosis Assessment in Whitby
Dr. Jamal is accepting new patients for the LSS Bootcamp at Durham Spine & Sports Clinic, located at 103-420 Green Street, Whitby.
The clinic serves patients across Durham Region including Oshawa, Ajax, Pickering, and Brooklin.
