
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the spinal canal, which places pressure on the spinal nerve roots and the spinal cord, producing chronic radiating pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness in the legs or upper arms. Occurring in any region of the spine, this medical condition can develop as part of normal aging due to osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease, or the result of a congenital disorder. Other causes may include overgrowth of bone, herniated discs, thickened ligaments, tumors, or spinal injuries.
Spinal stenosis can be treated with a combination of non-surgical treatments, such as physical therapy, activity modification, medication, and/or epidural injections. However, if the condition doesn’t improve, surgery may be considered. Depending on the extent of the condition, surgical treatments for spinal stenosis may include a laminectomy to decompress affected nerves and/or a spinal fusion to stabilize compromised vertebrae.