Spinal Stenosis, Symptoms and Treatments
Spinal stenosis can become a limiting condition over time, as we are talking about a condition where the symptoms progressively intensify.
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Although spinal stenosis has no cure, as a specialist in spinal pathologies and surgery, I use all my knowledge and efforts to slow its evolution and give a better quality of life to the people who come to my office.
In this section, I will explain in detail what spinal stenosis is all about, what its symptoms are, the main causes and the treatment methods that exist today…
What is spinal stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is a common pathology caused by the narrowing of the spinal canal (medullary canal), which leads to the spinal cord and the nerve roots that derive from it suffering from impingement. This nerve compression can cause acute pain, numbness, weakness or cramps that do not subside on their own, making it necessary to intervene with a specialist to achieve appropriate treatment.
Vertebral stenosis can manifest in any segment of the spine; however, the lumbar and cervical area are the most vulnerable.
Causes of spinal stenosis
Many people are born with a narrower than usual spinal canal (congenital stenosis); However, most cases are the result of degenerative changes, wear, wear and tear, or underlying diseases (acquired spinal stenosis). In this sense, among the main causes of spinal stenosis we can point out:
Arthrosis.
Arthritis.
Herniated discs.
Bone spurs.
Spinal tumors.
Paget's disease.
Thickening of the ligaments.
Previous spine surgeries.
Spinal injuries (trauma, fractures, displacements, etc.).
Symptoms of spinal stenosis
Spinal stenosis at first may not show any signs, as the symptoms usually manifest slowly and worsen over time. It is important to mention that symptoms vary depending on the segment of the spine that is affected.
Below, we will name the symptoms of both cervical spinal stenosis and lumbar spinal stenosis…
Symptoms of cervical stenosis
- Cervicalgia.
- Numbness, weakness, or tingling in the upper or lower limbs (arms, hands, legs, and feet).
- Loss of balance.
Symptoms of lumbar stenosis
- Lumbago.
- Cramps in the lower limbs (legs and feet).
- Discomfort and tiredness in the lower back when walking or standing.
Types of spinal stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal most often originates in the neck (cervical spinal stenosis) and lower back (lumbar spinal stenosis). The pressure exerted on the nerves and spinal cord causes the person who is not treated in time to experience the symptoms with greater intensity; In severe cases, even total or partial paralysis of the legs can occur.
Treatment for spinal stenosis
The diagnosis of spinal stenosis is made through a medical history, a physical examination and imaging tests (X-rays, MRIs or CT scans), which will allow the exact point of narrowing in the spine to be located.
After this, the severity of the spinal stenosis is evaluated and the most convenient treatment for the patient is chosen. Cervical or lumbar spinal stenosis can be treated with:
Drugs
In cases like this, the specialist may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and other special drugs to relieve muscle discomfort and spasms as part of the initial treatment.
Steroid injections
Usually, the nerves become irritated and inflamed at the site of compression; Therefore, steroid injections may be used around the nerve impingement to reduce inflammation, pressure, and pain.
Physiotherapy
With physiotherapy you will be able to learn specific exercises and techniques that will help you increase muscle strength and endurance in arms and legs; achieve greater stability and flexibility in the structures of the spine, and improve body balance.
Surgery
The goal of surgery is to widen the spinal canal to achieve nerve decompression. Surgical options available for the treatment of spinal stenosis include:
-Laminectomy: During this procedure, the back of the vertebral lamina that is pressing on the nerves is cut and removed. After laminectomy, a spinal fusion will likely be necessary for the spine to retain its stability.
- Laminotomy: The surgeon drills a small portion of the back of the affected vertebra to decrease pressure at a specific point.
- Lalipoplasty: This type of surgery is only applicable in the cervical area. In it, a part of the vertebral lamina is cut and removed, which is later closed again with a metal hinge as a replacement.
Risk factors for spinal stenosis
Your risk of spinal stenosis increases if you have one or more of the following:
He was born with a smaller spinal canal.
She is a woman.
He is over 50 years old.
You have suffered spinal injuries before.
She has had spinal surgery before.
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