Spinal Stenosis
Spinal Stenosis Causes
Spinal Stenosis is often caused by gradual aging process. Other cases are caused by bulging or herniated discs, tumor or osteoporosis.
Spinal Stenosis Definition
Spinal Stenosis is narrowing of the spinal canal. This condition puts pressure on the spinal cord. If the narrowing is located on the lower part of the spinal cord, it is referred to as lumbar spinal stenosis. Cervical spinal stenosis refers to the narrowing on the upper part of the spinal cord. However, there are also cases wherein stenosis can be found in any part of the spine.
Spinal Stenosis Diagnosis
Diagnosis for Spinal Stenosis can be achieved by means of CT scan or MRI.
Spinal Stenosis Symptoms and Signs
The narrowing of the spinal canal is not the one responsible for producing the symptoms of Spinal Stenosis. When nerve inflammation reaches the level of increased pressure, patients begin to develop symptoms that may bring trouble and difficulty. The following are some of these symptoms: ? Pain, weakness and numbness are felt in the legs, calves or buttocks of patient's with lumbar spinal stenosis usually during short distance walking. ? Pain, numbness and weakness in the shoulder, arms and legs are felt with patients suffering from cervical spinal stenosis; in addition to hand clumsiness, gait and balance interruptions. Other symptoms may include bladder and bowel problems and sometimes loss of function in very rare cases.
Spinal Stenosis Treatment
Mild cases of cervical spinal stenosis are relieved by physical therapy and using a cervical collar. For severe cases; laminectomy or decompression might be an essential treatment. Weight loss might be necessary in treating lumbar spinal stenosis and a sometimes epidural steroid injection is helpful for leg pain relief.