Spinal Stenosis in the Back
Spinal stenosis in the back occurs when the spinal canal in the middle (thoracic) or lower (lumbar) back becomes constricted. This is most likely to occur because of the presence of anatomical debris, such as herniated disc material or a bone protrusion called a bone spur. In this article, we will explore what causes this debris to form, what symptoms result from spinal stenosis in the back, and how the condition is treated.
Anatomical Debris & Spinal Stenosis
In most cases, the anatomical debris that causes spinal stenosis develop as the result of degenerative changes that coincide with the natural aging process. Most people don’t realize that while their hair is turning gray, their skin is developing wrinkles, and their eyesight is becoming less acute, the anatomical components of their spine are also beginning to break down. Over the span of several decades, the neck and back facilitate countless movements and continually support the weight of the body. It is not really all that surprising, then, that the spine begins to undergo degenerative changes when an individual reaches middle age.
But what parts of the spine are affected and what exactly happens to them? In the case of spinal stenosis, it is the vertebrae that are affected. More specifically, it is the opening in the centers of the vertebrae (called the vertebral foramina) that can become clogged with anatomical debris. This primarily happens when the following spinal components undergo degenerative changes:
-Facet joints – These are the hinges that connect adjacent, articulating vertebrae. The facet joints are called synovial joints because they have a cavity filled synovial fluid and a thin layer of cartilage that help to lubricate them when they articulate. Over time, this cartilaginous lining can wear away, leading to an arthritic condition called facet disease. The joints can begin to uncomfortably grind against one another, which can prompt the body to produce bone spurs in an attempt to stabilize the spine. If a bone spur grows inward toward a vertebral foramen, the spinal canal can narrow.
-Intervertebral discs – Positioned between adjacent, articulating vertebrae, intervertebral discs absorb the impact that is placed on the neck and back. Their structure can be likened to a jelly-filled donut in that an outer casing (annulus fibrosus) surrounds a gelatinous filling (nucleus pulposus). Near middle age, the annulus fibrosus can become weak and brittle while the nucleus pulposus can lose water content and become less adept at evenly distributing the force that is placed on a disc. This can lead to the development of a herniated disc (when the nucleus pulposus seeps through a tear in the disc wall) or bulging disc (when the annulus fibrosus is no longer able to contain the nucleus pulposus within its normal boundary, allowing the disc to balloon to one side). Both of these conditions can lead to the presence of anatomical debris within the spinal column.
-Ligamenta flava – The spine has two ligamenta flava (one on the left and one on the right), which run lengthwise along the spine and connect the vertebrae. Much like a rubber band, these ligaments can essentially stretch. This occurs because the ligaments are continually supporting the neck and back every time an individual bends forwards, stands up, leans back, and performs other movements. This can result in thickened ligaments that have folded in on themselves and invaded the spinal canal.
The Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis in the Back
A narrowing of the spinal canal doesn’t necessarily cause symptoms. That’s because it is only when the anatomical debris presses against a nearby spinal nerve that symptoms arise. When spinal stenosis in the back causes neural compression, patients can experience symptoms of pain, numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness. These symptoms can travel along the length of the nerve and appear in the areas of the body that are innervated by that particular nerve. For example, pinched nerve in the thoracic spine can cause symptoms in the middle back, ribs, torso, and/or inner organs, while neural compression in the lumbar spine can lead to discomfort in the lower back, hips, buttocks, legs, and/or feet.
Treating Spinal Stenosis in the Back
Fortunately, most individuals are able to relieve the symptoms of neural compression caused by spinal stenosis in the back without the need for surgery. In fact, many of the nonsurgical treatments that are recommended by physicians can be utilized from the comfort of one’s home, including:
-Over-the-counter medication – Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NDSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen are typically the go-to medication for treating the symptoms of neural compression. Analgesics like acetaminophen may instead be recommended for those who suffer from certain cardiovascular or gastrointestinal conditions.
-Thermotherapy – The application of a heating pad to the middle or lower back can help to relieve muscle tension. This type of treatment also promotes nutrient-rich blood flow to the area, which can aid in the healing process.
-Cryotherapy – Applying an ice pack can provide a numbing effect against pain and can also reduce inflammation.
-Lifestyle modifications – Losing weight, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and becoming more physically active can all have a positive effect on spinal health.
Before utilizing any of the nonsurgical treatments for spinal stenosis, patients should be sure to consult their physician to receive a customized treatment regimen.
Some patients may also be advised to work with a physical therapist to strengthen the muscles in the back. This can help provide the spine with added support and may even reduce some of the pressure that is being placed on the affected spinal nerve. Physical therapy may also entail other treatment methods, such as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), massage therapy, therapeutic ultrasound, spinal traction, and posture modification exercises, among others.
Surgery for Spinal Stenosis in the Back
Those who do not receive adequate results from the use of conservative, nonsurgical treatments for spinal stenosis in the back may be advised to consider surgery. Operations for spinal stenosis aim to decompress the nerve that is being compressed by the anatomical debris that is encroaching upon the spinal canal. This can be accomplished through an open spine surgery that usually involves the fusion of two vertebrae or through a minimally invasive procedure.
Endoscopic spine procedures are a popular option among spinal stenosis patients because of their brief rehabilitation periods, low risks of infection, and high rates of patient satisfaction. These procedures are performed on an outpatient basis under deep IV sedation and local anesthesia. Most patients recover in a matter of weeks and some even enjoy immediate relief.
Those who are advised to undergo surgical treatment for spinal stenosis in the back may benefit from receiving a second or third opinion to ensure surgery is necessary. To learn more about spinal stenosis in the back and the various ways in which it is treated, consult a spine specialist or other type of physician today.
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.
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 other spinal conditions. http:// http://laserspineinstitute.com/back_problems/spinal_stenosis/
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: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: Spinal Stenosis Back