SPINAL STENOSIS

If you suffer from spinal stenosis, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What is spinal stenosis?

When the space inside the backbone is too small, spinal stenosis occurs. Spinal Stenosis puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves and most often occurs in the lower back and neck. Spinal stenosis narrows spaces within the spine, exerting pressure on nerves traversing the spinal canal. This narrowing, occurring in various spine regions like the cervical or lumbar areas, compresses the spinal cord and nerve roots, inducing symptoms like pain, numbness, weakness, or tingling sensations. Aging and degenerative changes, such as ligament thickening or bone spur formation, are often linked with spinal stenosis. Symptoms may exacerbate with activity and alleviate with rest. Treatment options, varying from conservative measures like physical therapy and pain management to more invasive interventions like surgery, depend on symptom severity and their impact on daily life.

What are the symptoms of spinal stenosis?

People with spinal stenosis often have no symptoms. Symptoms of spinal stenosis begin slowly and worsen over time. Symptoms depend on which part of the spine is affected. Symptoms of spinal stenosis typically manifest gradually and vary depending on the location and severity of the narrowing within the spine. Common signs include pain, numbness, or tingling sensations in the affected area, often radiating down the arms or legs. In more severe cases, weakness or difficulty walking may occur, especially when the spinal cord is compressed.

Individuals may experience worsened symptoms when standing or walking for extended periods, which may improve with rest or changing positions. Additionally, some may notice increased discomfort or pain when bending backward, as this can further narrow the spinal canal. It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional if experiencing any of these symptoms, as early detection and management can help alleviate discomfort and prevent further complications.

 

Spinal stenosis in the lower back

Pain or cramping in one or both legs often occurs when standing for prolonged periods or during walking, which are common symptoms of spinal stenosis. The discomfort typically arises due to the narrowing of the spinal canal, leading to pressure on the nerves traveling through it. Additionally, individuals may notice that their symptoms improve when they bend forward or sit down. This positional relief occurs because bending forward or sitting can temporarily alleviate the compression on the spinal cord and nerve roots, reducing pain and discomfort causing Back pain. Such symptoms may vary in intensity and duration, but if persistent or worsening, it’s crucial to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and management of spinal stenosis.

Spinal stenosis in the neck

Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hands, legs, feet, or arms, along with difficulties in walking and maintaining balance, are common symptoms associated with spinal stenosis. Neck pain may also be experienced, often as a result of the narrowing of the spinal canal in the cervical region. Additionally, some individuals may encounter challenges related to bowel or bladder function. These symptoms can vary in severity and may worsen over time if left untreated. Seeking medical evaluation and appropriate treatment is essential for managing spinal stenosis effectively and preventing further complications.

 

What causes spinal stenosis?

The vertebrae make up the spine and stack on top of each other from the skull to the tailbone. These bones protect the spinal cord, which runs through an opening called the spinal canal.

Most spinal stenosis occurs when something happens to reduce the amount of open space within the spine.

• Bone spurs-Paget’s diseases or wear-and-tear damage from arthritis can cause an extra bone to grow on the spine. Bone spurs can push into the spinal canal.
• Herniated discs
• Thick ligaments-The strong cords that help hold the bones of your spine together can become stiff and thick over time. Thick ligaments can push into the spinal canal.
• Tumors- When tumors form inside the spinal cord, they can put pressure on the surrounding nerves. This is rare but still possible.
• Spinal injuries-Car accidents, tough falls, and other trauma can cause spinal bones to break or move out of place.
• Surgery- Swelling of nearby tissue right after back surgery also can put pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.

What are the treatments for spinal stenosis?

Medication

Healthcare providers commonly prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation associated with spinal stenosis. Tricyclic antidepressants administered nightly can also provide relief from chronic pain by altering pain perception. Anti-seizure medications have been found to effectively diminish pain resulting from nerve damage. However, opioid medications, while sometimes prescribed for severe pain, are typically reserved for short-term use due to their potential for addiction and adverse side effects. Healthcare providers carefully consider the risks and benefits of opioid therapy and often explore other treatment avenues before resorting to these powerful pain relievers.

Steroid shots

An anti-inflammatory medicine — a steroid or corticosteroid -helps reduce inflammation and relieve some of the pain from where your nerve roots are irritated. 

Moreover, injecting corticosteroids into the needed area t will not provide permanent relief on its own,  however, it can dramatically reduce inflammation and pain. The effects can last anywhere between 1 week to 1 year. In some patients, steroid injections can reduce pain to the point where patients are able to participate in Physical Therapy, which in turn can strengthen the surrounding muscles and eliminate the need for further treatment.

Physical Therapy

Additionally, physical therapists diagnose and treat patients with medical problems or injuries that limit their ability to participate in their daily lives. Patients will usually see a physical therapist after a referral by their primary physician. Moreover, physical therapists work with patients who have experienced an injury or disease that has affected their movement and range of motion.

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.