The spinal column contains a small space reserved for the spinal cord and sympathetic nerve roots. When this space becomes narrowed due to osteoarthritis, bulging discs or bone spurs, it can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots, resulting in back pain, numbness and weakness. Our spinal specialists at Hanowell Spine Clinic in Covington, GA, offer advanced spinal stenosis treatment options to help minimize discomfort and improve mobility.
Most patients with spinal stenosis are 50 years of age or older. While there are congenital and injury issues that can lead to spinal stenosis at a younger age, most commonly this condition is caused by degenerative disease. Spinal osteoarthritis, thickening ligaments, deteriorating spinal discs and other aging issues can narrow the nerve space in the spine. The result can be nerve pain and weakness in the affected muscles surrounding the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine.
Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis
Some people with spinal stenosis are free from symptoms. It depends on whether the narrowed spinal space pinches nerve roots. In the cervical spine, spinal stenosis can result in headaches and pain through the neck, shoulder and arm. There may be tingling, numbness or weakness from nerve pressure. In the lumbar spine, spinal stenosis can result in lower back pain or sciatica symptoms, with pain, tingling or weakness impacting the hips and legs.
Spinal stenosis treatment focuses on reducing the symptoms. This can include steroid injections to minimize inflammation and pressure on the nerves. Minimally-invasive lumbar decompression can help reduce nerve impingement in the lower back. Our team at Hanowell Spine Clinic in Covington, GA, can design a spinal stenosis treatment plan to offer symptom relief. Contact us to schedule a consultation and exam if you are suffering from the symptoms of spinal stenosis.