Spinal stenosis

Spinal stenosis is a condition caused by the narrowing of spaces in the spinal canal that results in pressure on the spinal cord and/or nerve roots. This may be localised to just one area of the spine or may extend over a long length of the spine. Pressure on the lower part of the spinal cord or on nerve roots branching out from that area may give rise to pain or numbness in the legs. Pressure on the upper part of the spinal cord (that is, the neck area) may produce similar symptoms in the arms, or even the legs.

The major cause of stenosis is wear and tear induced degeneration of the spine, and is most common in people over 50 years of age. However, it may occur in younger people who are born with a narrowing of the spinal canal, or in people who suffer an injury to the spine or develop a tumor or infection. Spaces within the spine can narrow without producing any symptoms. However, if narrowing places pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, there may be a slow onset and progression of symptoms.

Symptoms may include:

• Dull to severe aching pain in the buttocks, thighs or calves that’s worse when walking & exercising
• Back pain that radiates into one or both thighs & legs
•  Numbness & weakness in buttocks, thighs or calves that’s exaggerated when standing, walking or exercising.
• Symptoms relieved by bending forward, sitting or lying down.

Spinal Stenosis is, in fact, a puzzling condition that can neither be predicted nor prevented.

Surgery for spinal stenosis has a high success rate in patients carefully selected for this procedure. It remains a useful approach in treatment when other options have been exhausted and after careful review of risks and benefits with the patient.