Spinal Stenosis Condition

What is Spinal Stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is a condition in which the spinal canal is compressed, usually due to narrowing caused by osteoarthritis, bulging discs, or thickening of the back’s ligaments. Since the spinal canal contains the spinal cord and nerve roots, that compression causes pinching of the cord and roots that results in numbness, cramps, weakness, and pain.

This narrowing can occur in one spot along the spine or several. Most cases involve narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck or lower back, but pain is commonly experienced in other areas of the body like the calves. For some patients, this narrowing results in few if any symptoms. More severe cases can result in chronic pain and even disability.

What Causes this condition?

Like many conditions of the spine, this narrowing of the spinal canal typically occurs as a result of the aging process. As you get older, spinal tissues can thicken and bones can grow larger, causing nerve compression. Inflammation from rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and other medical conditions can also contribute. Other causes include:

• Birth defects of the spine
• Scoliosis, or curvature of the spine
• Bone tumors in the spine
• Paget’s Disease
• Genetic factors resulting a spine that is naturally narrower

In addition to those causes, there are also various risk factors that can make you more susceptible to this type of nerve compression.

What Are the Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis?

When medical providers suspect the presence of spinal stenosis, there are specific signs and symptoms they look for, including:

• Pain in the legs or cramping, numbness, and weakness that inhibit walking
• Sharp pains running from the back to the lower legs
• Pain that results in loss of sexual function
• Problems with bladder and bowel function
• In the most severe instances of spinal nerve compression, patients may even experience partial or full paralysis in the legs.

Of course, many of these symptoms are present in other spinal conditions, so a proper diagnosis must be made to ensure proper treatment. While there is no cure for this narrowing of the spinal canal, osteopathic care can be an important part of any effective treatment to manage symptoms.

How We Can Help

Because this narrowing of the spinal canal can result in worsening symptoms over time, it is important to seek treatment to reduce pain and enhance your quality of life. Leonid Tafler, D.O. has the experience and expertise to help, using proven osteopathic techniques that can help to reduce pain, maintain mobility, and reduce the risk of disability. With manual manipulation, recommended exercises, and lifestyle changes, many patients can live stronger, more active lives.