Cervical Spinal Stenosis Treatment

Stenosis is the medical term for narrowing of the spinal canal, and can occur at any point along the spinal column. The most common form of this condition occurs in the lumbar (lower) region of the spine, but is also found in the cervical (neck) region as well. Understanding what stenosis is, what it does and how to find treatment is essential for maintained mobility, strength and quality of life.

Identification

• Cervical spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal, which causes nerves running its length to be compressed, cramped or pinched, which results in a multitude of symptoms, inlcuding numbness, pain and severely limited mobility.

Symptoms

• Some of the major symptoms of cervical spinal stenosis is not caused by the actual narrowing of the spinal canal, but by the inflammation or swelling of nerves in the affected area, which can lead to weakness, numbness and pain in the shoulders, arms and legs. In some cases, individuals suffering from cervical spinal stenosis may often display clumsy hand movements and some difficulty with balance. Pain may either be described as dull and throbbing or sharp stabs.

Diagnosis of Cervical Spinal Stenosis

• Diagnosis of cervical spinal stenosis can be achieved through a variety of methods. Among the most popular are through x-rays, an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and a CAT (computerized axial tomography). A physician will also examine the patient, ask questions regarding medical history and may perform a bone scan as well.

Treatments

• Surgical treatment of cervical spinal stenosis may include laminotomy, where small portions of the lamina (inside portion of the top of the vertebrae are 'shaved' or removed to allow more room within the spinal column), or a foraminotomy, where the lower exit in the vertebrae is removed in order to allow more room for nerves. Another common surgical treatment for cervical spinal stenosis is called a cervical corpectomy, where portions or discs of vertebrae are removed to allow more room for nerves.
  Nonsurgical treatments may include non-steroid medications (NSAIDs) to help reduce inflammation, physical therapy, and exercise to help strengthen stabilizing muscles in the back. Increasing flexibility often offers relief from those suffering from the pain or limited mobility caused by the condition. Analgesics like Tylenol often help with pain management, and some studies have shown that individuals who take supplements such as chondroitin and glucosamine experience some relief as well.
  Walking is considered to be one of the best things for treatment of cervical spinal stenosis, which helps not only to strengthen the back muscles, but because the position keeps the back in a flexed position.

Causes

• In most cases, all types of spinal stenosis are caused by general wear and tear of the spine as we age. Ligaments that hold bones together, discs that cushion the vertebrae of the spine, and facet joints generally start to deteriorate as aging occurs. In many cases, and according to the Mayo Clinic, the main cause of spinal stenosis is arthritis and osteoarthritis, but other causes include tumors, herniated discs and injuries of the spine.

Prevention/Solution

• While we can't prevent aging, there are some things we can do to help protect our backs as we age. Regular exercise is essential, as is using proper body ergonomics when lifting heavy objects. Maintaining a healthy weight is also recommended, to help reduce added pressure on the spine and prevent compression of spinal nerves.