An abnormal narrowing of the spinal canal is known as spinal stenosis that usually presents with back pain or neck pain. This can be so debilitating that it can impair your ability to perform routine activities. Fortunately, this can be easily managed through several conservative and surgical methods.
Greenbelt spinal stenosis uses a novel treatment called minimally invasive lumbar decompression (MILD) that can alleviate pain and other symptoms by targeting the source of your pain.
Spinal stenosis-What is it?
An abnormal constriction or narrowing of one or more spaces in your spinal canal is known as spinal stenosis.
The spinal canal is a tunnel or passage running through each vertebra, and it contains the spinal cord. Minimal space within the canal can pinch the spinal cord and the nerves branching out, causing severe back pain, discomfort, and nerve issues like sciatica.
There are two types of spinal stenosis depending on the area affected:
- Cervical stenosis: Affecting your neck
- Lumbar stenosis: Involving your lower back
Common causes
Spinal stenosis usually occurs when one of the following conditions forces tissues to protrude into the opening:
Congenital conditions (from birth)
- Abnormal genetic mutations
- Achondroplasia
- Kyphosis
- Osteopetrosis
- Exostosis
Acquired conditions (after birth)
- Osteoarthritis
- Herniated disc
- Thickened ligaments
- Spinal fractures and injuries
- Spinal cysts or tumors
Signs and symptoms
Signs and symptoms of spinal stenosis depend on the area being affected.
Cervical stenosis
- Neck pain
- Numbness or tingling sensation in your arm, hand, or leg
- Impaired function in your hands
- Compromised gait
Lumbar stenosis
- Lower back pain
- Heavy feeling in your legs with cramping
- Pricking sensation in your buttocks
- Pain worsens when you stand for long periods
- Pain lessens when you sit
Treatment options
Your doctor will evaluate your symptoms and come to a final diagnosis after conducting X-rays, MRIs or CT scans. These tests help to determine the exact location and severity of the condition.
Treatment for spinal stenosis includes:
Nonsurgical approach
- Heat and cold packs
- Adequate rest
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Prescription painkillers
- Physical therapy
- Steroid injections
Interventional approach
- Spinal cord stimulation
- Epidural steroid injections
- Radiofrequency ablation
Surgical approach- MILD
- Minimally invasive lumbar decompression (MILD), is an advanced surgical outpatient procedure (does not require hospitalization).
- It involves making a tiny incision around the area of stenosis.
- The tissues causing the narrowing of the canal and pressing against the nerves are excised.
- This takes less than an hour.
Summary
Spinal stenosis may sound frustrating since it can severely impinge the nerves causing neck or back pain, negatively impacting your daily life. But fortunately, there are several treatment options of which MILD is an effective method.
