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Spinal Stenosis Symptoms
Spinal stenosis symptoms vary in their location depending on the area of the spine as well as the nerve root or part of the spinal cord that is constricted. For example, cervical spinal stenosis causes symptoms in the upper back, neck, and arms, while lumbar spinal stenosis results in symptoms in the lower back and legs, as well as the buttocks and feet. However, the sensations themselves are often very similar and include:
Spinal stenosis symptoms vary in their location depending on the area of the spine as well as the nerve root or part of the spinal cord that is constricted. For example, cervical spinal stenosis causes symptoms in the upper back, neck, and arms, while lumbar spinal stenosis results in symptoms in the lower back and legs, as well as the buttocks and feet. However, the sensations themselves are often very similar and include:
- Pain
- Numbness
- Muscle spasms
- Tingling
- Muscle weakness
- Headaches
Treatment for Spinal Stenosis Symptoms
The treatment for spinal stenosis depends on what caused the narrowing in the spine. For example, spinal stenosis that has resulted from a ruptured spinal disc may benefit most from simple rest. In contrast, spinal stenosis that has been caused by a bone spur might be best alleviated by spinal decompression. Oftentimes, a combination of multiple treatments is the best method, but your doctor is the only one who can determine both the cause of your symptoms and the most effective treatment plan.
Commonly prescribed treatments for the condition’s symptoms include:
- Exercise
- Stretching
- Rest
- Spinal cortisone injections
- Pain medications
- Anti inflammatory medications
- Hot/cold therapy
- Physical therapy
If these all fail to bring relief and you continue to experience debilitating spinal stenosis symptoms, surgery may be your final chance for relief. In this case, consider endoscopic procedures as safe, effective alternatives to open back and neck surgery. Unlike open procedures, minimally invasive ones do not require a stay in a hospital or the use of general anesthesia. They come with a much lower risk of infection, and the recovery time is measured in weeks, not months.
To learn more about treatment of spinal stenosis symptoms with minimally invasive spine surgery, as well as to request a free review of your MRI or CT scan from one of our physicians, contact Laser Spine Institute.