What is Spinal Stenosis?

Spianal stenosis is a condition in which there is a narrowing of one or more regions of a person's spine. This can result in pressure on the spinal cord or on nerves that branch out from these affected areas. Spinal stenosis can bring about cramps, pain and numbness in the legs, shoulders, arms, and back, along with other problems. In severe instances of spinal stenosis, back surgery is necessary.

Effects

• Primary spinal stenosis is rare and is present when a person is born. Acquired spinal stenosis develops as a person grows older. The arthritic condition that destroys the cartilage cushioning the ends of bone joints forces bone to rub against bone. When this occurs the body can make bony growths known as bone spurs to try to repair the damage. Bone spurs on what are called facet joints, or joints that connect vertebrate to each other, narrow the spine over time.

Features

• There isn't always pain associated with the narrowing of the spine but when these regions compress the spinal cord or nerves within it there is going to be signs. Pain and cramping in the legs are one, especially when you stand for a while or walk. Pain can branch out from the back and hips. Numbness and tingling in the feet and legs can become obvious. Neck and shoulder pain, headaches, and trouble walking are symptoms of spinal stenosis as well. In bad cases loss of bowel or bladder function can occur.

Identification

• Diagnosing spinal stenosis requires undergoing tests ordered by your doctor. Spinal X-rays can first rule out other conditions that have similar symptoms. MRIs can find damaged discs and ligaments in the back. CT scans are useful and a CT myelogram, a test where a dye is injected into the spinal column, can detect herniated discs, bone spurs, and possible tumors. Bone scans using injected radioactive materials are also available to identify if you have spinal stenosis.

Considerations

• Physical therapy and using pain relievers can help spinal stenosis patients to a point. Resting from physical activity may be necessary for some people while back braces and corsets are an option for others. Injections of steroids have proven effective and can reduce swelling and pain. Surgery to relieve spinal stenosis symptoms will be necessary in severe cases, with the chances of being successful depending on the exact nature of the spinal degeneration.

Prevention/Solution

• There are things you can do to try to keep your back in good condition. Regular exercise can keep the spine strong and flexible, with a combination of aerobic exercise and weight training and stretching able to provide the best results. Stay conscious of how you are sitting, how you lift heavy objects, and how you sleep, trying to make sure you have proper back supports. You should see your doctor if you begin to feel back pain that limits your movements, especially if you also have leg pain or bladder problems that you think may be related to your back.