Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is a condition in which different areas of the spinal column, the lumbar and cervical areas in particular, become narrowed and cause abnormal pressure on the spinal cord and nerves occupying that space. It can be caused by a variety of factors including hereditary influences, injury and the aging process. It can be mild, or sevwre with functional impairment. Treatment for spinal stenosis depends upon the type and severity of the constriction.

What Causes Spinal Stenosis?

Stenosis can be primary or acquired. Primary spinal stenosis, which is relatively uncommon, is present at birth. Acquired spinal stenosis, which is the type that most people have, develops later in life. It's usually a result of degenerative changes in the spine that occur with aging.

The main cause of spinal degeneration is osteoarthritis, an arthritic condition that affects the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in your joints. With time, the cartilage begins to deteriorate and its smooth surface becomes rough. If it wears down completely, bone may rub painfully on bone. In an attempt to repair the damage, your body may produce bony growths called bone spurs. When these form on the facet joints in the spine, they narrow the spinal canal.

Other factors that can cause a narrowing of the spinal canal include herniated disk, ligament spinal tumors injury or Paget Disease.

How is Spinal Stenosis Diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask about your medical history and perform a physical exam that may include checking your peripheral pulses, range of motion and leg reflexes.

You're also likely to have one or more of the following tests:

• Spinal X-ray.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
• Computerized tomography (CT) scan.
• CT myelogram.
• Bone scan.
• Other diagnostic procedures such as a spinal nerve block or epidural steroids.

How is Spinal Stenosis treated?

Nonsurgical Treatments

• Physical therapy 
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Analgesics. This group of pain relievers includes acetaminophen (Tylenol, others)
• Rest or restricted activity
• Bracing. This helps provide support and may especially benefit people who have weak abdominal muscles or degeneration in more than one area of the spine
• Epidural steroid injections. In some cases, your doctor may inject a corticosteroid medication into the spinal fluid around your spinal cord and nerve roots.

Surgery

The goal of surgery is twofold: to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves and to maintain the integrity and strength of your spine. This can be accomplished in several ways, depending on the cause of the problem.
 your physican will discuss your options.

At Stamford Hospital's Orthopedic Institute we specialize in the X-Stop Procedure, the first non-fusion treatment for patients with lumbar spinal stenosis.    
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For more information or to make an appointment please call
1-877-233-WELL (9355).