Dr. Wood identifies the following symptoms that could signal spinal stenosis:
- Pain in the neck or back
- Numbness, weakness or cramping in the arms or legs
- Pain shooting down the legs
- Foot problems
- Difficulty walking
- Loss of balance
- Loss of bladder or bowel function
Spinal Stenosis
Standing Up to Persistent Back Pain
Jeffrey Wood, M.D., Orthopedic Spine Surgeon
Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the nerve openings either around the spinal cord or nerve roots that can cause problems similar to those of a pinched nerve. Many people live with this condition all their lives without knowing it. Others, however, develop it later in life. It is most commonly found in men and women over the age of 50.
What Causes Spinal Stenosis?
As people age, the supporting structures of the spine begin to degenerate. This may include degeneration and bulging of the disc, thickening of the ligaments and thickening of the joints of the spine. These changes due to aging are common causes of spinal stenosis. Osteoarthritis, a degenerative condition, often leads to spinal stenosis — rheumatoid arthritis is a less likely cause of spinal stenosis. Inherited conditions such as a small spinal canal or a curved spine (scoliosis), injuries to the spine, and tumors can also cause spinal stenosis.
"Because other age-related conditions may mimic the symptoms of spinal stenosis, proper diagnosis is important," says Jeffrey Wood, M.D., orthopedic spine surgeon with Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas. "Diagnosis starts with a review of a patient's medical history and a physical exam."
Additional diagnostic testing could include one or more of the following tests:
A spinal X-ray — Often used to rule out a fracture, bone tumor or other defect.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) — Uses a powerful magnet and radio waves to produce cross-sectional images of the spine. This sensitive test may be used for detecting the severity of the stenosis prior to surgery.
Computerized tomography (CT) — Uses a beam of radiation to produce detailed pictures of the spinal canal.
Myelogram — A contrast dye is injected into the spinal column for showing herniated disks, bone spurs and tumors. It is especially helpful for those patients who cannot undergo a MRI scan.
A bone scan – A small amount of radioactive material is injected into a vein to show where bone is breaking down or being formed.
Common Symptoms
"Spinal narrowing doesn't necessarily cause problems for everyone who has spinal stenosis," Dr. Wood says. "However, if the narrowed areas press the spinal cord or spinal nerves, symptoms can begin and cause persistent pain, weakness, numbness or tingling."
Treatments
"We first look at nonsurgical treatment options, including medicines to reduce swelling and relieve pain," Dr. Wood says. "Physical and aquatic therapy are other effective treatments in many cases."
"Serious symptoms, such as difficulty walking, loss of bowel or bladder function, and problems with the nervous system warrant surgical intervention," Dr. Wood says.
Attend a Free Seminar to learn more about Spinal Stenosis
Jeffrey Wood, M.D., and Anthony Muffoletto, M.D., orthopedic spine surgeons with Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas, will be leading spinal stenosis seminars on Tuesdays – April 21, April 28, May 5 or May 19. The one-hour presentations begin at 6:30 p.m. and will be held at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, Conference Room A&D. Refreshments will be served. Call 281-274-7500 to register.
