Spinal Stenosis
Spinal Stenosis is a narrowing or constricting of the cervical or lumbar column. This condition produces pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots that flows through the spinal canal. Spinal Stenosis generally affects individuals between the ages of 50-75, regardless if male or female.
There are two types of Spinal Stenosis; Cervical Stenosis and Lumbar Stenosis. About 75% of spinal stenosis cases occur in the lumbar spine. While patients are less likely to suffer a cervical stenosis in comparison to its counterpart, the cervical stenosis is found to be significantly more dangerous and severe.
Causes
- Hereditary/Genetics: If there are development problems and the spinal canal is too small at birth, then the malformations may cause narrowing or compression of the spine. Such spinal diseases that were obtained at birth may cause Spinal Stenosis.
- Age: This condition may be developed as part of the natural gaining process. The vertebrae of the spine will be subjected to wear and tear as we age, which may cause our spines to narrow.
- Osteoarthritis: The progressive wear and tear of the cartilage as a result of Osteoarthritis commonly causes the narrowing or constricting of the cervical and lumbar column.
- Tumors: Tumors that grow within the vertebrae or tissues within the spinal canal may apply pressure on the spinal cord and cause the space between the nerve roots to narrow.
Other causes include obesity, constant poor posture, and traumatic injuries.
Symptoms
Depending on the type of Spinal Stenosis, patients will experience different type of symptoms (or none at all).
Cervical Stenosis affects the neck and upper back area of the body as nerves in the cervical spine are compressed. Individuals with Cervical Spinal Stenosis may experience symptoms like:
- Pain, tingling and/or numbness that radiates from the neck down into the upper extremities.
- Severe weakness in the arms and legs.
- Difficulty maintaining balance and coordination when walking.
- Difficulty controlling bladder or bowel function.
Lumbar Stenosis affects the lower back area of the body as nerves in the lumbosacral spine are narrowed.
Individuals with Lumbar Spinal Stenosis may experience symptoms like:
- Pain, tingling and/or numbness that radiates from the buttocks down into the thighs.
- Cramping and weakness in the legs when walking or prolonged standing.
- Hot and cold sensation in the legs.
Treatment
Treatments vary depending on the type and overall severity of the symptoms accompanied with the condition. Minimally invasive options are more favorable in this case, which includes physical therapy, medications and pain management. Walkers and canes will also be provided in order to support the patient’s balance and relieve weight. In severe cases and when conservative measures fail to treat the patient, surgical options may be considered, including Decompression, laminectomy, etc. Be sure to discuss these options with a spine specialist.
With proper physical examinations and diagnostic studies, HEALTHPOINTE will be able to provide the best effective options in treating your pain.
Healthpointe has top-of-the-line physicians and specialists who are trained to provide treatment for orthopedic pain, and the associated symptoms.
Spinal Stenosis Treatment in Orange County, San Bernardino County, Riverside County and Los Angeles County:
- Spinal Stenosis Treatment in and near Anaheim
- Spinal Stenosis Treatment in and near Colton
- Spinal Stenosis Treatment in and near Corona
- Spinal Stenosis Treatment in and near Garden Grove
- Spinal Stenosis Treatment in and near Irwindale
- Spinal Stenosis Treatment in and near La Mirada
- Spinal Stenosis Treatment in and near Long Beach
- Spinal Stenosis Treatment in and near Los Angeles
- Spinal Stenosis Treatment in and near Ontario
- Spinal Stenosis Treatment in and near Perris
- Spinal Stenosis Treatment in and near Temecula
Contact Healthpointe Today!
HEALTHPOINTE offers comprehensive evaluations and treatments for all your orthopedic and related needs. To talk to one of our doctors, please schedule an appointment today!