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Spinal stenosis refers to the narrowing of the space in the spinal canal, which is the area that contains the spinal cord and its nerve branches. When this area becomes narrowed, it places pressure on the spinal cord and surrounding nerves, which can cause pain, numbness, and weakness along the spine. Spinal stenosis most commonly occurs in the cervical spine (neck) and the lumber spine (lower back), however it can also occur in the thoracic spine (mid-back) in some situations.
Suffering from symptoms of spinal stenosis? Take the first step to finding relief from your pain with our free interactive assessment.
As many as 90% of reported cases of spinal stenosis are result of degenerative changes that occur with aging. This degeneration can lead to bone spurs that may narrow the spinal canal. Other contributors to spinal stenosis include the degeneration, herniation or bulging of intervertebral discs; and the formation of synovial cysts (fluid-filled sacs in the joints).
While the most common cause of spinal stenosis is typically aging or injury, other risk factors include:
Spinal stenosis usually affects your neck or lower back, due to pressure on the spinal cord or its surrounding nerves. Progressive weakness and atrophy of muscles in the legs or arms can develop over the course of several months or years due to spinal stenosis. Eventually, standing and walking for long periods of time can become difficult and extremely painful.
Other symptoms of spinal stenosis include:
If you think you are experiencing the symptoms of spinal stenosis, use our interactive condition check tool to start getting your diagnosis.
Treatment options for spinal stenosis are dependent on the stage of your condition, however the earlier you begin to seek a diagnosis and treatment, the better your chances are for a speedy recovery.
Non-surgical treatment options for spinal stenosis includes:
One main goal of spinal stenosis surgery in your neck or lower back is to free up room for your spinal cord and/or the nerve roots, which is called decompression. A second goal of spinal stenosis surgery is to increase your motor strength and restore any lost sensation in your arms or legs.
Surgical options for spinal stenosis include:
If left untreated, spinal stenosis can cause permanent damage to the spinal cord, myelopathy, and a significant reduction in movement, along with the other traditional symptoms.
Are you suffering from the painful symptoms of spinal stenosis? If you’re ready to take the next step toward finding pain relief, try our interactive treatment finder below to find the right treatment option for you.
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