Treating lower back pain can be a challenge. There are a variety of causes of lower back pain, including muscular injuries or weakness, trauma, disease, and degeneration. A diagnosis of spinal stenosis means that there is a narrowing or impingement of the spaces in the lower spine that nerves travel through. When the nerves become pinched or irritated, pain, weakness, numbness, and tingling can occur.
What Is Spinal Stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is, specifically, a narrowing of the spaces which nerves travel through in the spine. Whether the narrowing is caused by degenerative disc disease, arthritis, trauma, injury, or other causes, the result is irritated. Impinged nerves. When the nerves are being pinched, they cannot carry signals as efficiently. The result is pain, numbness, weakness, and tingling that may travel down the legs or upward into the back and shoulders depending upon the location of the problem.
Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
Lumbar spinal stenosis is the most common form. It is often marked by pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness of the legs and feet. Sufferers may experience cramping and pain in the legs, especially when they’re on their feet for long periods. The pain and weakness are usually relieved by leaning forward, a position which releases the pressure being placed upon the impinged nerves. The damage may be caused by a herniated disc, overgrowth of the bone, degeneration of the spine, thickened ligaments or tumors.
Spinal Stenosis Treatment
Your doctor may recommend surgery to expand the openings and release the pinched nerves. Alternatives may include anti-inflammatory injections to reduce the irritation of the nerves. Pain killers may also be directly injected to prevent the nerves from passing excessive pain signals, making the patient far more comfortable and able to participate in physical therapy and other treatment options. If you suspect you’re suffering from stenosis, call for a consultation today.
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