Canal Stenosis

Canal stenosis, also referred to as spinal stenosis, occurs when the cervical spine (part of the spinal cord in the neck) or the lumbar spine (spinal nerve roots in the lower back) become compressed. This is more common in adults aged 41 and older due to the natural aging process but can occur in patients who have suffered a back or neck injury. The symptoms differ for each cause of spinal stenosis. Lumbar stenosis is indicated by sciatica and leg tingling, weakness, or numbness. Symptoms of cervical spinal stenosis include decreased motor skills as well as arm and leg pain.

If you believe you’re suffering from spinal stenosis, contact us to schedule an appointment. Based on your past history, a physical exam, and what symptoms you’re experiencing, we can determine if you have spinal stenosis. An MRI can be given to check your spinal nerves and to see if you have any disc problems, and an x-ray is useful in measuring the extent of injury and arthritis to the vertebrae.

If the tests reveal that you have spinal stenosis, treatment depends on what stage the disease is in and ranges from medication to surgery. The earlier you catch it, the less invasive the treatment. Anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy will be recommended for cases discovered early on. If those treatments don’t help or the stenosis is found in a later stage, cortisone injections or surgery will be administered to relieve pain. Acupuncture, chiropractic care, and yoga may also help reduce pain and stop the stenosis from worsening.

Along with medical treatment, there’s also lifestyle changes that can stop the furthering of spinal stenosis and will increase your overall health. Eating a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, exercising daily, and quitting smoking are all recommended to patients suffering from spinal stenosis.