A Guide to Spinal Stenosis
Spinal Stenosis Symptoms:
Numbness, cramping or weakness in the arms or legs
Tingling or “pins and needles”
Loss of bowel or bladder control
Causes of Spinal Stenosis
To understand the condition, one must figure out what is spinal stenosis and what are the most significant reasons that can lead to the condition. Below are some of the causes that lead to this disorder:
Bone Overgrowth/Osteoarthritis: This is the most common cause directly related to osteoarthritis. It usually occurs due to wear-and-tear damage in the spinal bones.
Herniated Disk/ Slipped Disk: In this case, one of the discs of the cartilage gets damaged and allows some inner material to move outside and cause pressure on the spinal nerves.
Injury: This is more common in gymnasts and weightlifters where a sudden trauma causes a slipped disc damaging the spine. It may also happen due to road accidents leading to dislocation or vertebrae fracture.
Tumors: Abnormal growth in the membranes that cover the spinal cord and the gap between the spinal cord and vertebrae may also be a major cause behind spinal stenosis.
Treatment for Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis treatment depends on the severity of the condition. The level of severity is determined by physical examinations, including X-rays, MRI or CT scans, or a myelogram that provides a clear picture of the current situation. Post these examinations, the doctors check for the level of pressure on the spinal cord and the effectiveness of nerves. Further, they proceed with the most appropriate treatment.
In most cases, patients get relief with exercises and non-surgical treatments. The treatment procedure usually involves anti-inflammatory medicines or NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs), cortisone shots, and physical exercises. Some physical exercises or activities such as walking or static cycling, are very helpful in relieving pain and symptoms. If the exercises do not show any improvement, steroid injections may be recommended. If non-surgical treatments failed to provide spine surgery may be recommended.
People seeking spinal stenosis treatment in Plano or nearby areas can contact Texas Health Center for Diagnostics & Surgery for a physician on the medical staff who specializes in the treatment of spinal stenosis.
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References:
https://www.orthogate.org/articles/spine/what-is-foraminal-stenosis
https://www.spine-health.com/glossary/foraminal-stenosis
https://www.webmd.com/back-pain/ss/slideshow-spinal-stenosis
https://www.healthline.com/health/spinal-stenosis