Spinal stenosis symptoms can arise in different areas of the body. The condition involves the narrowing of the spinal canal, which houses the spinal cord and its nerve roots. The canal is formed by articulating vertebrae from the cervical (neck) to the lumbar (lower back) region of the spine, as well as the sacrum and coccyx bones located near the pelvis.

Several spinal conditions or health problems such as bulging discs, osteoarthritis, or inflamed ligaments can lead to spinal stenosis if bone or other tissue juts into and limits the space surrounding the spinal cord or the nerve roots. Whether a condition causes narrowing to take place in the cervical, thoracic (mid-back), or lumbar regions, spinal cord and/or nerve root compression can occur. Where the resulting symptoms develop, however, depends on the location of the blockage.

Cervical Spinal Stenosis

A spinal condition in the neck, such as a bulging disc, may cause spinal stenosis symptoms if the disc material compresses the spinal cord or a cervical nerve root. Typically, pain will develop at the site of compression. Additional symptoms of pain, tingling, muscle weakness, and numbness could affect the shoulders, upper arms, and hands. Cervical nerve compression might also cause headaches.

Thoracic Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis rarely occurs in the thoracic, or mid-back, region, as this area of the spine is stabilized by the attached rib cage. However, thoracic spinal stenosis can be particularly problematic when it does occur, as the diameter of the spinal canal in this region is smaller than in the neck or lower back. Thoracic spinal stenosis may cause symptoms of radiating pain around the chest and mid-back, as well as possible numbness and weakness in the legs.

Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis symptoms in the lumbar region might include sharp lower back pains where the spinal cord or nerve root is compressed. Sharp pain, burning, tingling, numbness, and muscle weakness could radiate down to the hips, buttocks, thighs, and calves. The feet also may be affected.

Treatment

Oftentimes, a doctor will recommend a course of conservative, or non-invasive, methods to treat spinal stenosis symptoms. Pain medication, physical therapy, and hot/cold therapy, among others, are usually helpful in reducing pain. If several weeks or months of conservative treatments prove ineffective, surgery may be needed.

In Conclusion

The condition of spinal stenosis is not to be taken lightly. This narrowing of spaces within the spinal column is a potentially serious condition that should be treated by a licensed health care provider. Before you try any treatments for this condition on your own – especially medications, dietary changes, or exercise – make sure to tell your doctor and receive his or her approval. If you’d like to get a second opinion about your condition, there are several specialists you can consult with such as an orthopedic surgeon, chiropractor, and physical therapist.

In rare cases, spinal stenosis can cause a life-threatening condition called cauda equina syndrome. If you experience difficulty walking – or a loss of urinary or bowel control – seek immediate emergency care.

Author Bio: Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient procedures for spinal stenosis and several other spinal conditions.

Category: Medical Business
Keywords: Spinal stenosis