Spinal Stenosis refers to the narrowing of the spinal canal. This may result in “pinching” or compression of the nerve roots and spinal cord in the spinal canal. As a result, the patient would experience pain, cramping, weakness, or numbness in the lower back and legs, neck, shoulder, or arms, depending on where the narrowing takes place in the spine.

While there is no cure for spinal stenosis, specific pain management techniques can relieve pain and improve flexibility in the back.

Spinal Stenosis

As we age, degenerative changes in the spine and wear-and-tear effects lead to a narrowing of the spinal canal, or spinal stenosis. This may worsen due to arthritis which causes bony over growths of the vertebrae.The narrowing occurs most often in the lower back or neck and worsens with time.

Typically, a person with spinal stenosis experiences severe pain in the legs, calves, or lower back when standing or walking. Sitting down or leaning forward may relieve the pain.

Two main types of spinal stenosis are:

• Cervical stenosis – narrowing in the upper part of the spine or neck
• Lumbar stenosis– narrowing in the lower part of the spine or lower back, which is the most common form of spinal stenosis.

Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis

The most common symptoms are –

• problems with walking and balance
• cramping in the calves while walking even short distances
• lower back pain while standing or walking
• pain, weakness or numbness or tingling in a hand, arm, foot, or leg
• pain or cramping in legs which eases while bending forward or sitting
• pain radiating into one or both thighs and legs, similar toan ache or a burning
• weakness in the legs or “foot drop”

Some people may experience a severe type of spinal stenosis called cauda equine syndrome which causes –

• the loss of bowel or bladder control
• numbness
• weakness
• balance problems
• paralysis

Treatment for Spinal Stenosis

• Over-the-counter medications, such as aspirin and acetaminophen, can reduce inflammation and pain
• Physical therapy under the supervision of a physical therapist
• Practicing good posture
• Minimally Invasive Procedures

o    Stem Cell Treatments to reduce degeneration and calm irritated nerves

o    Percutaneous adhesiolysis or the Racz procedure to remove excess scar tissue in the epidural space

o    Spinal cord stimulation to reduce pain by producing electrical signals

o    Nerve blocks to turn off the pain signals.

Pain specialists treat the chronic pain caused by spinal stenosis and other chronic pain conditions. By using a comprehensive approach and cutting-edge therapies, they work together with patients to restore function and regain an active lifestyle, while minimizing the need for opiates.

If you are looking for pain management specialist, call one of the leading pain management clinics in Illinois, Illinois Pain Institute at 800-340-PAIN Today!