Spinal stenosis is a condition
in which the spinal canal is narrowed, and the nerves in the lumbar region
of the spine are compressed as a result of the thickening of the bones
in the lumbar region or from a degenerative condition such as arthritis.
Compression on the spinal cord and nerve roots is often a painful condition
that causes irritation and sometimes dysfunction of the nerve roots in
the lower back.
Symptoms of spinal stenosis
may include pain in the lower back, buttocks, thigh and calf pain following
periods of activity. Most often, these symptoms are relieved to varying
degrees by rest. Medication to reduce inflammation and exercise or physical
therapy may also be helpful. Strengthening the muscular support for the
lumbar region can sometimes help relieve pain. If after two weeks you have
experienced no relief, your doctor may recommend steroid injections near
the affected nerves. When less aggressive treatment measures have failed
to relieve pain, it may be necessary to use surgery to decompress the vertebral
column.
More severe symptoms may
include pain in the hips and abdomen and a sensation of heaviness in the
legs during walking and other activities. In some cases, the symptoms may
mimic problems with the circulation of the legs and a diagnostic evaluation
will be required to rule out vascular problems.
Patient history and physical
findings during an examination by your doctor are important in the diagnosis
of spinal stenosis. A CT scan is most often used to diagnose the condition,
followed by an MRI or myelogram.
