Living with Spinal Narrowing
The symptoms of spinal narrowing vary depending on the location of the condition. For some, spinal narrowing causes neck pain. For others, it may lead to lower back or sciatic pain. However, the important thing to understand about this condition is that, on its own, the narrowing of the spinal canal is actually asymptomatic. Neck and back pain develops from spinal stenosis as a direct result of the presence of a compressed nerve accompanying the narrowing of the spinal canal. Otherwise, the individual may remain entirely unaware of his or her condition.
Signs of Spinal Narrowing
In the event that spinal narrowing results in nerve compression, a number of uncomfortable symptoms can develop, including:
- Localized pain
- Radiating pain along the affected nerve
- Muscle weakness
- Numbness or tingling
- Sciatic pain
- Fatigue
The Location Variable
The symptoms associated with nerve compression depend wholly on the specific nerve that is irritated or compressed. Different nerves stimulate different muscle groups and tissue throughout the body, so nerve compression in the spinal column can result in symptoms in various parts of the body:
- Cervical — head, neck, shoulders, arms, wrists, hands, and fingers
- Thoracic — torso, abdomen, and shoulders
- Lumbar — lower back, buttocks, thighs, calves, feet, and toes
- Sacrum — pelvis and reproductive organs
Spine Solutions with BEST Health System
If you experience any of the spinal narrowing symptoms and nerve compression, it is usually necessary to visit your doctor to determine the best course of treatment for your condition. In most cases, a series of conservative treatments will prove effective in treating spinal stenosis, although some patients may require spinal surgery to completely relieve their symptoms
BEST Health System is proud to be the leader in minimally invasive spine surgery. We have helped thousands of patients find relief from their neck and back pain. Our board-certified surgeons are able to use a small, muscle-sparing incision in order to decompress the nerves, thereby relieving spinal stenosis symptoms. Contact us to learn more about our minimally invasive surgery options.
