What is Spinal Stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is a degenerative condition characterized by a narrowing of the spinal canal. This creates pressure on the many nerves located in the spaces within the spinal column. The pinching, irritation, or compression of these spinal nerves can cause significant pain.
Types of Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is typically categorized into two types:
- Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: Lumbar stenosis affects the lumbar spine and nerves in the lower back and is the most common type of spinal stenosis.
- Cervical Spinal Stenosis: Cervical stenosis occurs when the spinal narrowing and nerve compression takes place in the neck area of the spine.
What Causes Spinal Stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is more common in people over the age of 50. It may occur without a specific reason, but some common causes include:
Spinal Stenosis Diagnosis
Our Dallas spinal specialists utilize a variety of advanced diagnostic tools to determine the cause of chronic pain. If it is suspected that you may be suffering from spinal stenosis, your doctor will discuss your symptoms and perform a physical exam. You may undergo an X-ray, an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), or a CT scan in order to check for bone spurs, herniated discs, or spinal tumors. If you have had a previous MRI, we offer a free MRI review.
Treatment for Spinal Stenosis
Your personalized treatment plan for spinal stenosis will vary depending on your symptoms and any underlying conditions associated with your stenosis. At DFW Spine Institute, we will work with you closely to find a treatment option that is best for you.
Non-Surgical Procedures to Treat Spinal Stenosis
In the beginning stages, patients may try over-the-counter pain relievers or alternative procedures such as acupuncture. As spinal stenosis progresses patients may find relief from professional physical therapy and non-surgical procedures such as steroid injections or nerve blocks.
Surgery for Spinal Stenosis
Surgery may be recommended for severe spinal stenosis or in cases when pain is not relieved by non-surgical methods. Different types of surgery may be appropriate depending on the location and underlying cause of the stenosis. Our specially trained spinal surgeons are experienced in minimally invasive surgery, including spine fusion surgery, spinal decompression surgery, and discectomy surgery.
Types of Spine Surgery For Spinal Stenosis
- Laminectomy: This surgical procedure eases pain and pressure by making more space around the affected nerves. Space is created by removing a part of the spinal bone called the lamina. Spinal fusion or a bone graft may be needed to support surrounding spinal bones.
- Laminotomy: This procedure is similar to a laminectomy, but only part of the lamina is removed.
- Foraminotomy: In this surgical procedure, space is created by widening the intervertebral foramen.
Recovery After Spinal Stenosis Surgery
Patients who are candidates for spinal surgery are often concerned about recovery time. Rest assured that our spine specialists use state-of-the-art technology to perform laser spine surgery with minimally invasive techniques. Recovery time may vary spending on the severity of spinal stenosis and the type of surgery performed, but patients typically resume regular, non-strenuous activities within one week.
Contact DFW Laser Spine Institute for Spinal Stenosis Solutions
The symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis or cervical spinal stenosis can be painful and debilitating. You don’t have to let chronic pain prevent you from enjoying life. Our spinal stenosis specialists can create a personalized treatment plan to help you find relief. Contact us today with any questions or to schedule your consultation appointment.
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