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Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a term used to describe a narrowing in the spine. The narrowing can occur inside the canal where the spinal cord lays, or in the opening through which nerves pass to get from the spinal cord into the rest of the body.
The constriction can occur due to many issues, and the most common include:
- Bulging disc
- Herniated disc
- Degenerative disc
- Bone spur
- Osteoarthritis
- Spinal trauma
- Swollen ligaments
- Genetics
Types of Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is categorized by the area in the spine in which it is located. This can be one of three regions:
- Cervical - Vertebrae C1 to C7 in the upper back and neck.
- Thoracic - Vertebrae T1 to T12 in the middle back.
- Lumbar - Vertebrae L1 to L5 in the lower back.
Stenosis most commonly occurs in the lumbar spine, followed by the cervical spine.
Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis
Regardless of where it's located and what is causing it, spinal stenosis can result in debilitating symptoms that keep the sufferer from living a normal life. These include:
- Pain
- Tingling
- Numbness
- Muscle spasms
- Burning
- Muscle weakness
- Headaches
For more information on spinal stenosis, as well as potential treatments for this and related conditions, contact Laser Spine Institute. We offer a complimentary MRI or CT scan review to determine eligibility, and our spine doctors will be happy to go over all your treatment options with you.