Print
BlinkList
del.icio.us
Digg
Facebook
StumbleUpon
Technorati
Spinal Stenosis of the Back
Spinal stenosis, which is also known as narrowing of the spine, can be an extremely painful condition. This is because when it progresses, the constriction can pinch a nerve root or even the spinal cord itself, and this pressure keeps the nerve or spinal cord from transmitting signals properly. The result is pain, tingling, numbness, weakness, burning, and other symptoms in various areas of the body.
Causes of Spinal Stenosis in the Back
There are many spinal conditions that can result in spinal stenosis in the back, but some of the more common include:
- Bulging disc
- Herniated/torn/ruptured disc
- Osteoarthritis
- Degenerative disc disease
- Osteophyte
- Spondylolisthesis
Treating Spinal Stenosis in the Back
The correct treatment for spinal stenosis depends on what is causing the narrowing in the spine. For example, if the condition is caused by degenerative disc disease the treatment will be different than for a case that is the result of an osteophyte. However, there are some conservative techniques that are common between many treatment regimens, and these include:
- Rest
- Spinal decompression
- Exercise
- Pain medications
- Anti-inflammatory medicine
- Hot/cold compresses
- Epidural steroid shots
For more information on spinal stenosis in the back, including potential treatments such as the endoscopic procedures performed at Laser Spine Institute, contact us today. Our spine doctors will provide you with a complimentary MRI or CT scan review to determine your eligibility and will be happy to discuss your potential treatment options with you.