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Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal or the openings in the spine where the nerve roots exit. This can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, causing pain, numbness, and weakness. Spinal stenosis can occur in any part of the spine, but it is most common in the neck and lower back. It is a common condition in older adults, but it can also occur in younger people. At Manipal Hospitals, we have the best neurosurgeon and spine surgeon in Patiala who can treat spinal stenosis and guide you, in your recovery journey.
This article is a compilation of causes, symptoms, treatment and prevention tips that you must know and share with anyone suffering from spinal stenosis.
Causes of Spinal Stenosis
The most common spinal stenosis causes are wear-and-tear changes in the spine that occur over time. This can include:
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Degenerative disc disease
This condition causes the discs between the vertebrae to break down and lose their cushioning ability.
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Arthritis
Arthritis can cause bony spurs to form on the vertebrae, which can narrow the spinal canal.
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Ligament thickening
The ligaments that hold the vertebrae together can thicken over time, which can narrow the spinal canal.
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Congenital spinal stenosis
This is a rare condition in which the spinal canal is too narrow from birth.
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Spinal injuries
Spinal injuries can damage the vertebrae and spinal canal, leading to spinal stenosis.
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Tumours
Tumours in the spine or spinal canal can also cause spinal stenosis.
Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis
The spinal stenosis symptoms vary depending on where in the spine the narrowing occurs.
Symptoms of spinal stenosis in the neck can include:
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Neck pain
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Numbness or tingling in the arms, hands, or fingers.
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Weakness in the arms or hands
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Difficulty walking or balancing
Symptoms of spinal stenosis in the lower back can include:
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Low back pain
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Numbness or tingling in the legs, feet, or toes.
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Weakness in the legs or feet
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Difficulty walking or standing
In severe cases, spinal stenosis can lead to the loss of bladder or bowel control.
Treatment for Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis treatments depend on the severity of the condition and the symptoms. Nonsurgical treatments for spinal stenosis include:
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Physical therapy
Physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles around the spine and improve flexibility.
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Medication
Over-the-counter pain relievers and prescription medications can be used to relieve pain and inflammation.
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Injections
Corticosteroid injections can be used to reduce inflammation and pain.
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Epidural steroid injections (ESIs)
ESIs are injections of corticosteroids and other medications into the epidural space, which is the area around the spinal cord.
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Surgery
If nonsurgical treatments are not effective, surgery may be recommended. Spinal stenosis surgery can involve widening the spinal canal or removing any pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
Prevention of Spinal Stenosis
There is no sure way to prevent spinal stenosis, but there are things you can do to reduce your risk, such as:
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Maintaining a healthy weight.
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Exercising regularly
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Practicing good posture
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Avoiding smoking
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Avoiding activities that put stress on your back.
If you experience any of the mentioned symptoms, it is better to visit our best spine care doctors in Patiala for a timely diagnosis and treatment. Bookmark our official blog page to read medically accurate blogs shared by our doctors on various topics related to health and lifestyle.
