Spinal Stenosis: Causes, Symptoms & Effective Treatments

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of spaces in the spine which puts pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. It is a degenerative disease which can be painful. Spinal stenosis is most commonly seen in people over 50.

Causes

• Primary spinal stenosis is an uncommon condition some people are born with. Acquired spinal stenosis is usually caused by osteoarthritis, which affects the cartilage of bones and joints.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of spinal stenosis include pain in the hip, back, legs, shoulders and neck. You may also lose balance and the function of your bowels and bladder.

Nonsurgical

• Nonsurgical treatment of spinal stenosis includes physical therapy to build strength and stabilize the spine, anti-inflammatory and pain medicines, steroid injections, a back brace and rest.

Surgery

• Surgery to treat spinal stenosis is performed to help relieve spinal pressure, and to maintain spinal strength. Surgery can be risky; it will not stop degeneration and symptoms may return.

Complications

• Losing feeling in legs, feet, hands and arms is among the complications of spinal stenosis. You may also experience muscle atrophy.