There are a variety of spinal stenosis causes. The condition refers to the narrowing or blocking of the spinal canal and may develop if other spinal conditions or health problems limit the canal space. This narrowing may also lead to compression of the spinal cord or nearby nerve roots.

Spinal Conditions

Spinal stenosis causes can include the following:

– Degenerative disc disease – Over time, the intervertebral discs that lie between vertebrae can begin to dry out and weaken, which may lead to the development of a bulging or herniated disc. Extruded disc material may protrude into – and limit – space in the spinal canal. Or, if discs deteriorate and lose their height, it can cause vertebrae on either side of the disc to shift closer together, which can compress space in the spinal column.

– Osteoarthritis – The cartilaginous lining that protects the facet joints also can wear away. This may lead to bone grinding on bone, which can cause pain, tenderness, inflammation, and stiffness. If osteophtyes, or bone spurs, develop in response to increased bone friction, the spurs may project into the spinal canal and compress a nerve root or the spinal cord.

– Thickened ligaments – Ligaments can thicken over time and can bulge into the spinal canal. Calcified deposits can also develop on thickened ligaments and cause further spinal canal blockage.

– Injuries – Traumatic injuries may cause vertebral fractures or spinal dislocation, which can lead to the compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots.

Where Symptoms Can Arise

The nerve compression that spinal stenosis sometimes causes can occur in any part of the spine. Sharp or shooting pains can mark the area of compression, whether in the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), or lumbar (lower back) regions of the spine. However, radiating symptoms of pain, tingling, weakness, cramping, spasms, and numbness will typically appear in the extremities closest to the location of the stenosis. For example, if a cervical bone spur is pinching the spinal cord, the symptoms mentioned above may radiate down the shoulders, arms, and hands. Conversely, if a lumbar bulging disc protrudes into the spinal canal and causes nerve compression, radiating symptoms will usually develop in the lower back, buttocks, legs, and feet. Conservative treatments like medication, physical therapy, and spinal injections are usually helpful in alleviating symptoms, but surgery may be required in some cases.

In Conclusion

If you think you have spinal stenosis, make an appointment to see your doctor. Spinal stenosis is a serious spinal condition that requires proper diagnosis and treatment. In addition to your primary care doctor, there are several other health care providers you can consult with about your spinal stenosis, such as an orthopedist, orthopedic surgeon, physical therapist, or chiropractor.

Any treatments you try for your spinal stenosis should be approved by your physican. Before you try any treatments for this condition – especially medications, dietary changes, stretching, or exercise – make sure to consult with your doctor. Some medications may interact with drugs you’re already taking, and certain exercises could make your condition worse.

If you experience a loss of urinary or bowel control or difficulty walking, this could be a sign of a life-threatening condition called cauda equina syndrome. Seek emergency medical care immediately.

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