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Spinal Stenosis

Conditions

What is Spinal Stenosis?

Spinal stenosis refers to a narrowing of the spinal canal, which houses the spinal cord and nerve roots. This narrowing can exert pressure on these sensitive structures, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the back, legs, or neck.

Types of Spinal Stenosis

There are two primary types of spinal stenosis:

  • Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: Occurring in the lower back, lumbar spinal stenosis is the most common form. It can cause pain, tingling, or weakness in the legs, often worsening with walking or standing.
  • Cervical Spinal Stenosis: RThis affects the neck area and can lead to similar symptoms in the arms, hands, or legs, depending on the location of nerve compression.

Causes and Risk Factors

Spinal stenosis often develops gradually as a result of aging and wear-and-tear on the spine. However, other factors can contribute, including:

  • Degenerative Changes: Such as osteoarthritis and thickened ligaments.
  • Herniated Discs: Which can protrude into the spinal canal.
  • Genetic Factors: Some individuals may have a predisposition to spinal abnormalities.
  • Injury or Trauma: Previous accidents or injuries can lead to stenosis over time.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

At Garden State Medical Center, we emphasize precise diagnosis and personalized treatment plans. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of:

  • Medical History Review: Understanding your symptoms and overall health.
  • Physical Examination: Assessing strength, reflexes, and sensation.
  • Imaging Tests: Such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to visualize spinal structures.

Treating Spinal Stenosis

  • Medications: To manage pain and inflammation.
  • Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve strength and flexibility.
  • Minimally Invasive Procedures: Such as epidural steroid injections or nerve blocks.
  • Surgical Options: For severe cases that do not respond to conservative treatments.
  • Assistive Devices such as braces, splints, or orthotic inserts to provide support and relieve stress

Possible Treatments

Interventional pain management and orthopedic surgery offer various treatments for back pain, including: