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Comprehensive Spine Decompression at NYSI

Chronic numbness, tingling, or radiating pain in your arms or legs could be the result of compressed spinal nerves. At New York Spine Institute, we specialize in foraminotomy surgery—a precise, minimally invasive procedure that relieves pressure on spinal nerves and restores mobility.

Offered at multiple NYSI locations throughout New York and New Jersey, this advanced spine surgery is performed by our board-certified team of orthopedic spine surgeons and neurosurgeons—bringing institution-level skill to a boutique practice setting.

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What Is a Foraminotomy?

A foraminotomy is a surgical procedure designed to enlarge the foramen, the small openings between vertebrae through which spinal nerves exit the spine. When these passageways become narrowed—due to bone spurs, disc herniation, arthritis, or spinal stenosis—nerves can become compressed, leading to:

  • Radiating pain (sciatica, arm pain)
  • Numbness or tingling in the limbs
  • Muscle weakness
  • Difficulty walking or performing daily activities

The procedure removes the tissue or bone that’s compressing the nerve root, alleviating symptoms and restoring nerve function.

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Conditions Treated with Foraminotomy

NYSI’s spine surgeons may recommend a foraminotomy to treat:

  • Cervical or lumbar spinal stenosis
  • Herniated or bulging discs
  • Bone spurs (osteophytes) from arthritis
  • Nerve root compression (radiculopathy)
  • Sciatica or leg/arm numbness
  • Post-surgical nerve irritation (failed back surgery syndrome)

If non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or epidural injections haven’t resolved your symptoms, foraminotomy may offer a long-term solution.

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Minimally Invasive Foraminotomy

At NYSI, we use minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) techniques whenever appropriate. Our surgeons access the spine through a small incision using specialized tools and surgical microscopes, avoiding damage to surrounding tissue. Benefits of MISS for Foraminotomy:

  • Smaller incisions and less scarring
  • Reduced post-operative pain
  • Shorter hospital stays or outpatient discharge
  • Faster return to normal activity

We’ll determine if MISS is right for you based on imaging, symptoms, and overall health.

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What to Expect from Foraminotomy Surgery

Your care begins with a detailed consultation with one of our spine specialists. We’ll evaluate your MRI or CT scans, review your medical history, and recommend the best treatment plan based on your needs.

During a foraminotomy:

  • A small incision is made at the affected spinal level
  • Soft tissues are gently retracted
  • Bone or disc material compressing the nerve is carefully removed
  • The nerve root is decompressed and protected

Most patients go home the same day and begin noticing relief within a few weeks. Our physical therapy and rehabilitation team will guide your recovery to ensure safe, lasting results.

Why Choose NYSI for Foraminotomy?

With over 20 years of experience treating complex spinal conditions, NYSI brings together a multidisciplinary team of leaders in orthopedic spine surgery, neurosurgery, pain management, and rehabilitation. We combine high-level clinical expertise with compassionate, individualized care—across 10 locations throughout New York and New Jersey. What Sets NYSI Apart:

  • Board-certified surgeons with expertise in MIS and complex spine care
  • Full-service model: diagnostics, surgery, and rehab under one roof
  • Transparent, patient-centered philosophy with no hospital quotas
  • Multilingual team fluent in Spanish, Portuguese, French, Italian, German, and Russian
  • Trusted results—even for revision and high-risk cases
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Schedule a Spine Consultation Today

If nerve compression is interfering with your life, foraminotomy surgery could offer relief and a path back to mobility. Whether you're seeking a second opinion or ready to explore surgical options, New York Spine Institute is here to help.

Book your consultation today to learn more about your personalized treatment options from the region’s most trusted spine experts

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