Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of one or more areas in your spine — most often in your upper (cervical) or lower (lumbar) spine. This narrowing can put pressure on your spinal cord or on the nerves that branch out from the compressed areas. Spinal stenosis can cause pain, numbness, tingling or cramping in your legs, back, neck, shoulders or arms; a loss of sensation in your extremities; and sometimes problems with bladder or bowel function. Spinal stenosis is most commonly caused by osteoarthritis-related bone damage.
Spinal narrowing doesn't always cause problems, but if the narrowed areas compress the spinal cord or spinal nerves, you're likely to develop inflammation of nerves that can cause signs and symptoms. These often start gradually and grow worse over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Is Spinal Stenosis Diagnosed?
Diagnosing spinal stenosis involves determining whether spinal narrowing is putting pressure on the spinal cord or nearby nerves. Your provider can evaluate symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, cramping, or loss of sensation to determine the appropriate next steps.
What Is the Difference Between Lumbar and Cervical Spinal Stenosis?
Lumbar spinal stenosis affects the lower spine, while cervical spinal stenosis affects the upper spine or neck. Symptoms vary depending on which nerves are compressed and can affect the back, legs, neck, shoulders, arms, or other extremities.
Can Spinal Stenosis Cause Leg Weakness or Difficulty Walking?
Spinal stenosis can cause pain, numbness, tingling, cramping, or loss of sensation in the legs when narrowed areas place pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. If these symptoms begin affecting your mobility or daily activities, medical evaluation is important.
Can You Have Spinal Stenosis Without Symptoms?
Yes. Spinal narrowing does not always cause problems. Symptoms are more likely to develop when the narrowing compresses the spinal cord or spinal nerves and causes nerve inflammation.
When Should I See a Doctor for Spinal Stenosis Symptoms?
Consider medical evaluation if you develop persistent or worsening pain, numbness, tingling, cramping, or loss of sensation in your back, neck, arms, or legs. Problems with bladder or bowel function can also occur with spinal stenosis and warrant prompt medical attention.
Does Spinal Stenosis Always Require Surgery?
Not everyone with spinal stenosis has symptoms, and the appropriate care depends on whether spinal narrowing is compressing the spinal cord or nerves and the problems it is causing. Your provider can evaluate your symptoms and determine the most appropriate treatment.
What Treatments Are Available for Spinal Stenosis?
Treatment depends on the location and severity of the narrowing, the nerves involved, and your symptoms. Your provider can evaluate these factors and develop an individualized approach to managing your spinal stenosis.
If you would like more information about Conditions or to schedule an appointment, feel free to fill out our convenient contact form or call us directly at 760-941-7336.
