Spinal Stenosis
What Is Spinal Stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is a condition in which the spaces within the spinal canal become narrowed, placing pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. It most commonly occurs in the neck (cervical spine) or lower back (lumbar spine) and is often associated with ageing and degenerative changes in the spine.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms may include:
- Back or neck pain
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
- Leg pain when walking
- Weakness in the limbs
- Difficulty maintaining balance
- Relief of symptoms when sitting or bending forward
When Should Medical Review Be Considered?
Medical assessment is recommended if:
- Walking distance becomes progressively limited
- Weakness develops in the arms or legs
- Balance problems increase
- Pain interferes with daily activities
- Symptoms continue despite conservative treatment
Available Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Treatment
- Physiotherapy
- Pain management
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Activity modification
- Epidural injections
Surgical Treatment
When symptoms become severe or neurological function is affected, surgery may be recommended.
Common procedures include:
- Decompression surgery
- Laminectomy
- Spinal fusion where necessary
Frequently Asked Questions
Is spinal stenosis a normal part of ageing?
Degenerative changes are common with age, but not everyone develops symptoms.
Can spinal stenosis be cured without surgery?
Many patients achieve symptom relief through conservative treatment.
When is surgery necessary?
Surgery may be considered when symptoms significantly affect quality of life or neurological function.
Can spinal stenosis cause paralysis?
Severe untreated nerve compression may result in significant neurological deficits, although paralysis is uncommon.
Will exercise help?
Appropriate exercises prescribed by a healthcare professional can be beneficial.