CONDITIONS
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a condition characterized by the narrowing of one or more spaces within the spinal canal, which acts as a tunnel running through the vertebrae in the spine and houses the spinal cord and nerves. The cervical (neck) and thoracic (mid-back) regions of the spine, contain not only the spinal nerves but also the cord spinal nerves that branch off and spread to the rest of the body. The spinal cord terminates near the junction of the thoracic and lumbar spine and the lumbar region, or low back, contains only spinal nerves.
Reduced space within the spinal canal can cause compression, irritation, or pinching of the spinal cord and the nerve roots branching off it, resulting in back pain and other issues like sciatica. Especially worrisome cases occur when the spinal cord is being compressed which can cause myelopathy. There are various conditions and injuries that can contribute to the narrowing of the spinal canal, like degenerative changes, fractures, or disc injuries, but they can also be present from birth. While spinal stenosis can affect individuals of any age, stenosis from degenerative etiologies is more commonly observed in people aged 50 and above.
Symptoms & Diagnosis
Symptoms of spinal stenosis can be constant or episodic and can range in severity from mild to excruciating and debilitating. These symptoms may include:
- Pain and discomfort in the neck or back
- Numbness or tingling in the extremities
- Weakness in the muscles of the legs or arms, often described as a heaviness of the legs when walking
- Sciatica, which is characterized by pain radiating down the buttocks and legs
- Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
Spinal stenosis typically develops over time, so patients may not experience symptoms for a while, even if the condition is present in imaging tests. To diagnose the condition, a doctor will review the patient’s medical history and symptoms, as well as complete a physical exam. They will also request certain imaging tests to visualize the spine and confirm the exact location, type, and extent of the problem, like an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan.
Treatment
The best treatment for spinal stenosis will depend on its cause, location, and severity of symptoms. Milder forms of stenosis can be treated with nonsurgical techniques, while significant cases or cases that do not improve with conservative treatment will require surgery. Surgical treatment for stenosis typically involves surgical decompression of the pinched nerves to provide the best environment for the nerves to heal.
Conservative treatment
- Medication Pain relievers like anti-inflammatories can help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve overall comfort.
- Physical therapy Physical therapists will work with patients to develop a back-healthy exercise program to build strength and improve balance, flexibility, and spine stability. They can also teach patients to walk in a way that reduces stress on the spine, which can help ease pressure on nerves.
- Epidural steroid injections Corticosteroid injections delivered directly into the affected area can reduce inflammation and pain.
Surgical intervention
- Cervical & lumbar decompression Cervical and lumbar decompression aims to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. These procedures involve removing or adjusting structures in the spine, such as the lamina or intervertebral discs, to create more space within the spinal canal.
- Spinal fusion Spinal fusion is done to address spinal instability resulting from stenosis, preventing excessive movement, alleviating symptoms, and improving overall function.
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Contact
Our team at Avramis Spine & Scoliosis is here to help. To request an appointment or for any other inquiries, please fill out the form.
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HOURS
MONDAY - FRIDAY • 8:30AM - 4:30PM
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LOCATIONS
GET IN TOUCH
Contact
Our team at Avramis Spine & Scoliosis is here to help. To request an appointment or for any other inquiries, please fill out the form.
-
HOURS
MONDAY - FRIDAY • 8:30AM - 4:30PM
-
LOCATIONS