Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal, the cavity within the vertebral column through which the spinal cord and nerves pass. Nerves leaving the spinal cord are called nerve roots; they pass through the vertebral column via small canals. Arthritic changes that cause overgrowth of vertebral bones may compress the spinal cord or the nerve roots, impairing sensation and muscle strength in the affected portion of the body.

Most common among people in their 50s and 60s, spinal stenosis affects the lumbar (lower back) portion of the spine more than the cervical (neck) region. Symptoms of spinal stenosis include pain, numbness, and weakness in the neck, arms, lower back, and legs.

Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis

• Back pain that may radiate to the buttocks and legs. Pain due to spinal stenosis worsens with activity.

   

• Numbness in the buttocks and legs.

   

• Weakness in the legs when walking.

   

• Back pain with loss of or changes in bowel or bladder function.

What Causes Spinal Stenosis?

• Disorders that involve arthritic degeneration and abnormal overgrowth of bone tissue, such as osteoarthritis or Paget’s disease, may cause spinal stenosis.

Prevention of Spinal Stenosis

• There is no way to prevent spinal stenosis.

Diagnosis of Spinal Stenosis

• Patient history and physical examination. Reflexes in the legs are tested to assess nerve involvement.

   

• X-rays, sometimes with injected dyes (myelography).

   

• CT (computed tomography) scans or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging).

How To Treat Spinal Stenosis

• Losing weight and toning the abdominal muscles with exercise may reduce pressure on the spine. Check with your doctor before beginning any weight-loss program or new exercise regimen.

   

• A lumbosacral support (a corset available at some pharmacies and medical-supply stores) may discourage motion that causes pain and help ease walking and exercise. It should not be worn all day, however.

   

• Anti-inflammatory drugs may relieve pain from spinal stenosis.

   

• If pain prevents normal activities despite self-care and medication, surgery to relieve pressure on the nerves (decompression surgery) may be warranted. The surgeon opens the spinal column where narrowing has occurred and removes the constricting bone or fibrous tissue. The opening through which nerve roots pass may be widened; if an excessive amount of bone is removed, the affected vertebrae may be fused together to increase spinal stability. Physical therapy may aid rehabilitation.

When To Call A Doctor

• Call a doctor if you have persistent pain, numbness, or weakness in the back, legs, or neck, or if back pain accompanies changes in bowel or bladder function.

For more information on spinal stenosis and related conditions, click on this link -- Johns Hopkins Health Alerts: Back Pain and Osteoporosis