Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the spinal canal, which contains the spinal cord and nerve roots. This narrowing puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, causing symptoms that vary according to the location and severity of the stenosis. The disorder primarily affects the lower back (lumbar stenosis) and the neck (cervical stenosis).
The narrowing is often caused by age-related changes in the spine, such as ligament thickening, bone spur formation, and intervertebral disc degeneration. These alterations can reduce the available space in the spinal canal, putting pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots. Other possible causes include congenital spinal abnormalities, herniated discs, or injury.
Spinal stenosis symptoms might include back or neck pain, numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, and, in severe cases, difficulty walking or keeping balance. Depending on where the stenosis occurs, patients may experience radiating pain when nerve roots compress, which can travel down the legs or arms.
Spinal stenosis treatment options include physical therapy, pain medicines, and, in certain situations, surgery. Non-invasive treatments can frequently help manage symptoms, but severe cases may necessitate surgery to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. Early identification and treatment are critical to avoiding future issues.