“Stenosis” means abnormal narrowing of a passage within the
body. Spinal stenosis is a common condition that develops when spaces
in the spine begin to narrow. This can cause nearby spinal nerve roots
to become compressed, which may lead to chronic nerve pain, physical dysfunction,
and other problems. Spinal stenosis usually develops in the neck or lower
back, but it can affect any area of the spine.
Understanding the Root Causes of Spinal Stenosis
Advancing age is a leading risk factor, since repetitive mechanical strain,
“wear and tear,” and degenerative changes in the spine can
lead to bony overgrowths of the spine. Other potential causes of spinal
stenosis include genetic predisposition, spinal trauma, and other diseases
that affect muscles and bones in the spine. American Pain Consortium uses
minimally invasive techniques to alleviate spinal stenosis pain.
mild® for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis is one such technique.
Sometimes, evidence of spinal stenosis can show up on medical imaging studies
even if a person doesn’t have symptoms. But if a person’s
spinal stenosis advances to the point of compressing a spinal nerve root,
a number of signs and symptoms can develop.
Key indications to be aware of include:
Numbness and tingling in an arm or leg
Weakness in an arm or leg (a person may begin to feel clumsy or trip often)
Pain and cramping in one or both legs, especially after a prolonged period
standing or walking (this pain may be relieved or move up the leg by bending forward)
Neck or back pain and stiffness
Signs of spinal stenosis vary from mild to intense and tend to get worse
over time. In more advanced cases, a person may notice problems with balance
and bowel and bladder control.
Effective Treatment Options for Spinal Stenosis
A variety of treatments exist that can help alleviate spinal stenosis symptoms
and improve mobility. These treatments may include
physical therapy,
nerve block injections, and mild® – a patented procedure in which excess ligament is
removed via a tiny incision in the back. The Vertiflex implant is a new
outpatient procedure that is effective in treating spinal stenosis of
the lumbar spine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will posture modifications help relieve my spinal stenosis pain?
Yes. Posture plays a major role in how much pressure is applied to irritated
spinal nerves. Lumbar spinal stenosis pain often worsens with extension
(standing tall or leaning backward) because this action narrows the spinal
canal. Conversely, mild flexion (leaning forward slightly, like leaning
on a shopping cart) opens the canal and reduces nerve pinch. A pain management
specialist or physical therapist can teach you proper ergonomics, sitting
posture, and lifting techniques to keep your spine in a decompressed position
throughout the day.
What lifestyle changes can help manage spinal stenosis day-to-day?
Adopting healthier habits can significantly lessen the strain on your spine
and improve your response to medical treatments:
Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces mechanical stress
on the lower back and spinal joints.
Low-Impact Exercise: Activities like swimming, water aerobics, and stationary
cycling keep you fit and flexible without placing heavy impact loads on
the spine.
Anti-Inflammatory Nutrition: Incorporating whole, nutrient-dense foods
reduces systemic inflammation that can exacerbate joint and nerve pain.
Avoiding Prolonged Inactivity: Alternating light movement with rest prevents
spinal stiffness from setting in.
American Pain Consortium is dedicated to alleviating chronic pain.
Complete our online contact form or call today to schedule your consultation.
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