What is spinal stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of your spinal canal, which places pressure on nearby nerves and causes pain. The condition often results in low back or neck pain. It might occur because of normal wear-and-tear, with symptoms worsening over time. The team at Racz Pain Centers can offer you pain-relieving treatments.
What are the symptoms of spinal stenosis?
Common signs and symptoms associated with spinal stenosis include:
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Muscle weakness
- Neck pain
- Back pain
- Balance and walking problems
- Leg pain or cramping
- Incontinence
Spinal stenosis can lead to paralysis in severe cases. Seek treatment at the first sign of spinal stenosis.
What are the risk factors for spinal stenosis?
Common risk factors associated with spinal stenosis include:
- Bone overgrowth
- Herniated discs
- Tumors
- Thick ligaments
- Spine injuries
- Older age
- Trauma
Spinal deformities, such as scoliosis, can also cause spinal stenosis.
How does my doctor diagnose spinal stenosis?
To find out if you have spinal stenosis, Dr. Racz reviews your symptoms and medical history. He completes a physical exam and may suggest you undergo X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to make a final diagnosis and develop an effective treatment plan.
What are my spinal stenosis treatment options?
Optional spinal stenosis treatments Dr. Racz may recommend for your circumstances include:
Natural therapies
Physical therapy stretches and exercises can strengthen targeted tissues to reduce nerve pressure and pain. Alternative therapies that may reduce spinal stenosis pain include massage therapy, therapeutic manipulation, and acupuncture.
Injections
Steroid injections can reduce inflammation and pain associated with spinal stenosis and nerve pressure.
Radiofrequency ablation
With radiofrequency ablation, radio waves target specific nerves to prevent pain signals from reaching your brain.
Spinal cord stimulation
Spinal cord stimulation uses an implantable device to send electric signals to your spinal cord and reduce pain signals.
Spinal decompression
Spinal decompression using Vertiflex™ Superion uses an implantable device to alleviate spinal compression and reduce nerve pain.
Other surgical procedures
Additional surgical procedures can remove tissues to widen your spinal canal and reduce neck or back pain.
Don’t live with numbness, tingling, and pain associated with spinal stenosis when Dr. Racz can offer solutions. Schedule an appointment with Racz Pain Centers by phone or book online today.
