What is spinal stenosis?
Your spinal column contains open spaces that create passageways for your spinal cord and spinal nerves. If these spaces become narrowed, the nerves become compressed in a condition known as spinal stenosis.
While you can be born with a small spinal canal, spinal stenosis is typically caused by:
- Spinal dislocations or fractures
- An overgrowth of bone, usually from osteoarthritis
- Soft tissue problems like herniated discs or tumors
Spinal stenosis typically affects the cervical and lumbar regions of your spine; cervical stenosis occurs in your neck while lumbar stenosis occurs in your lower back.
What are the symptoms of spinal stenosis?
Compressed nerves cause a variety of symptoms, which vary depending on the affected area of your spine. When you have cervical stenosis, for instance, you often experience pain, weakness, numbness, and tingling in your arms or legs.
With lumbar stenosis, sciatica symptoms are more common. These typically consist of a burning pain that radiates through the buttocks and down your legs. In severe cases, spinal stenosis can cause bladder and bowel control issues, also known as incontinence.
When left untreated, spinal stenosis can cause permanent nerve damage.
How is spinal stenosis diagnosed?
To identify the cause of your nerve pain, Dr. Crooks performs a full physical examination, discusses your symptoms, and reviews your medical history.
He may also suggest X-rays to identify changes in your spinal canal or use an MRI to look for disc or ligament damage and to diagnose the precise location of your nerve compression.
How is spinal stenosis treated?
Dr. Crooks develops a treatment plan based on the severity of your spinal stenosis and symptoms. Treatments often include:
- Physical therapy
- Muscle relaxants
- Steroid injections
- Pain-relieving drugs
- Anti-inflammatory medications
In some cases, Dr. Crooks might recommend spinal decompression to increase the space in your spinal canal.
If your spinal stenosis hasn’t responded to other treatments, he might recommend surgery to relieve your symptoms.
To learn more about spinal stenosis and its treatments, call the Pinnacle Pain and Spine or book an appointment online.
