Spinal stenosis is a condition where the spinal canal spine narrows which can put pressure on the spinal nerves resulting in significant pain. The narrowing can also create compression on the spinal cord, causing weakness in the arms and legs. The most common causes of spinal stenosis are disc herniations, bone spurs, and an overgrowth of the facet joints.
Stenosis of the spine is more common in the neck (the cervical region) or the low back (the lumbar region). As a result, symptoms are often found in these two areas, and can include any of the following: tingling, weakness, or numbness in the extremities; leg cramps; pain in the neck, back or legs. Severe cases, when the narrowing causes nerve damage, can also include loss of movement and loss of bladder control.
Spinal Stenosis Treatment
Treatment for spinal stenosis generally begins with conservative, non-surgical options such as anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy and injections. However, these treatment options may only provide temporary pain relief. A minimally invasive surgical procedure to open up the spaces in the spine (thus reducing the narrowing and freeing up any pinched nerves) is often the preferred option for long-term pain relief.
Stillwater Spine Surgeons
Complete the ‘request an appointment’ section on this page, or contact Midwest Spine & Brain Institute at 1.800.353.7720 to schedule a complete evaluation of your condition. Our spine experts will work with you to determine the best treatment plan to help you return to an active life. Our team consists of board-certified spine surgeons, pain management specialists, physician assistants, and more. We have locations throughout the Twin Cities metro area and treat patients throughout Minnesota.