An excessively narrow space within the backbone results in spinal stenosis. The spinal cord and the nerves that operate through the backbone may be compressed.
Not everyone with spinal stenosis experiences any symptoms. Others might feel numbness, tingling, pain, and muscle weakness. Over time, symptoms may deteriorate.
Back pain specialists nj specializes in surgical and non-surgical treatment of neck discomfort, back pain, and spinal disorders.
Symptoms
Many times, spinal stenosis has no symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they gradually worsen from the beginning.
In the rear lower
One or both legs may experience pain or cramping due to lower back spinal stenosis. Walking or standing still for an extended time can cause this.
Around the neck
Neck spinal stenosis can result in:
- Lack of feeling
- Weakness or tingling in the arm, foot, leg, or hand
- Difficulties balancing and walking
- Neck ache
Causes
Some individuals have a small spinal canal from birth. However, most cases of spinal stenosis arise from a decrease in the amount of space available within the spine. Among the reasons for spinal stenosis are:
Disk herniations
The soft cushions between your spinal bones that serve as shock absorbers are called disks.
Dense ligaments.
The robust ligaments that keep your spine's bones together may stiffen and thicken with time.
Spurs on bones
Extra bone may grow on the spine due to arthritis-related wear and tear damage. We refer to these as bone spurs. They can ram into the spinal column. Excess bone can also grow on the spine due to Paget's disease.
Spinal wounds
Spinal bones can fracture or shift out of position as a result of trauma and auto accidents. Following back surgery, surrounding tissue edema may also press against the spinal cord or nerves.
Treatment for spinal stenosis
Back pain treatment nj might initially advise at-home care if your symptoms are moderate. When your symptoms get worse, and these treatments don't help, your doctor might suggest physical therapy, medication, injections, or even surgery.
Home care includes:
Applying cold: Try using ice, such as an ice container, frozen gel pack, or frozen bag of peas, if applying heat isn't relieving your signs. For 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off, use the ice.
Exercise can help reduce pain, but first, speak with your healthcare provider. It also increases flexibility and balance while fortifying the muscles supporting your spine.
Applying heat: For osteoarthritis pain, heat is typically a better option. Heat promotes blood flow, which eases joint pain and relaxes your muscles.
When should I bring spinal stenosis up with my doctor?
See a doctor if you experience new back pain or other symptoms, such as tingling or weakness in your extremities. Examine choices with your healthcare provider if the sciatic nerve pain treatment you're receiving isn't relieving your symptoms.
Conclusion
The narrowing of the space surrounding your spinal cord results in spinal stenosis. Your spinal cord and the nerves that radiate off it become irritated by this.
Your everyday life may be disrupted by neck and back pain. The good news is that spinal stenosis can be treated in various ways. Back Doctor New Jersey gives you the best treatment options.