Those beset with
know how debilitating the condition can be. Symptoms of spinal stenosis generally depend on the severity of the condition, but in most cases, they can be distressing more so as it affects those aging 50 years old and above. When spinal stenosis affects the lumbar or the lower back area, an individual may experience pain radiating down the leg. It is not until one sits or bends forward that the pain is relieved. This sort of spinal stenosis in its severe case can cause lost bowel and bladder control, sexual dysfunction and difficulty when walking.
Spinal stenosis can affect the neck or the cervical spine as well, hence it is called cervical stenosis. Those affected by cervical stenosis may suffer from symptoms such as radiating pain down an arm or tingling, numbness or aching in an arm or a leg. Other than that, cervical stenosis can cause one to have difficulties in carrying out fine motor skills such as picking things up or writing. Even more so, they may experience problems when walking or may lose control of their bladder function or bowel movement as well. Symptoms of these sort of spinal stenosis often appear gradually, but in time, they degenerate causing the sufferer more distress.
But what really causes these symptoms and what really is
? Spinal stenosis is caused by a narrowing of the spinal canal. This in turn puts pressure on the spinal cord and the spinal nerves causing them to be compressed. A compression of the nerves result to an interfered communication between the brain and the body and consequently sensory problems or loss of function in certain areas may manifest. When there is an onset of spinal stenosis, compression of the spinal cord or the nerves may occur in the spinal canal, the nerve root canals, or the intervertebral foramen.
It can be localized in one area or otherwise widespread throughout the spinal section. Spinal stenosis can either be congenital or it can be acquired. When the condition is congenital in nature, it can either be due to scoliosis, achondroplasia or a congenitally narrow spinal column. However, most cases of spinal stenosis is acquired, such as a degeneration brought about by aging. Acquired spinal stenosis often beset individuals aging 50 years old and above. Tumors or injury and other diseases such as Paget’s disease can also bring about a development of spinal stenosis. Conventional approaches to treatment of the condition often prescribe exercises such as flexion.
Physical therapy can bring relief as well. Equally effective are alternative healing modalities such as massage therapy, chiropractic and acupuncture. Conventional practitioners may employ anti-inflammatory medications and muscle relaxants, but if ineffective, epidural cortisone and nerve block treatments may be the next recourse. In most cases, however, surgery is necessitated to correct
such as arthroscopic surgery. At times, an open surgery may be required to decompress the spinal cord, or perhaps a decompression laminectomy may be necessary to remove some bones and tissues thereby relieving the pressure in the spinal column.
Visit our Eazol Shop for a proven means to relieve muscle and joint pain.
The information contained in or made available through this website does not substitute the services of trained professionals in any field. Healthzine.org makes no representations or warranties concerning any treatment, action, or application of medication or preparation by any person following the information offered or provided within or through this website. Neither we nor our partners, or any of their affiliates, will be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, exemplary or other damages.
Digg It!
It's Del.icio.us!
Furl It!
Stumble!