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Spinal stenosis is a disease of the musculoskeletal system that affects an increasing number of people around the world.In this article, we will take a closer look at this problem, starting with its definition, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and ending with treatment and rehabilitation methods that can help patients regain their full life.
Stenosis – what is it?
Spinal stenosis is a condition that involves the narrowing of the spinal canal in the spine.The spinal canal is the space in which the spinal cord and nerve roots are located.Narrowing this space may lead to compression of neural structures, resulting in various neurological symptoms.
Spinal stenosis – causes
The causes of spinal stenosis can be various.The most common of them are:
- Aging of the body – with age, the tissues of the spine undergo changes that may lead to narrowing of the spinal canal.
- Herniated intervertebral disc – prolapse of part of the intervertebral disc may lead to pressure on neural structures.
- Congenital anatomical defects of the spine – some people are born with congenital defects that predispose them to stenosis.
- Shifting of the vertebrae – e.g.
due to injury or degeneration, which leads to narrowing of the spinal canal.
Stenosis – symptoms of narrowing of the spinal canal
Symptoms of spinal stenosis may be diverse and depend on the location of the narrowing and the degree of pressure on neural structures.The most common symptoms are:
- Pain in the spine area that may radiate to the limbs.
- Feeling numbness, tingling or muscle weakness in your limbs.
- Difficulty walking and maintaining balance.
- Disorders of sensation and function of the pelvic organs.
Stenosis – diagnostics
Diagnostics of spinal stenosis include:
- Neurological examination – the doctor assesses the patient’s reactions, muscle strength, sensation and reflexes.
- Imaging – Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) allows for accurate imaging of the spine and spinal stenosis.
- Electromyography – examination of nerve conduction and muscle activity.
Stenosis – treatment and rehabilitation of spinal canal obstruction
Treatment for spinal stenosis can be both conservative and surgical, depending on the severity of symptoms and the cause of the condition.
Conservative treatments include:
- Physiotherapy – exercises aimed at strengthening the spine muscles and improving stability.
- Painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs – designed to relieve pain and inflammation.
- Manual therapy and massage – can help relax muscles and reduce tension.
If conservative methods do not bring improvement, surgical treatment may be necessary to remove the source of pressure on the nervous structures.
Your suggestions
If you have a suspicion or diagnosis of spinal stenosis, it is important to consult with a spine specialist.Each case is different, so your doctor can tailor the treatment plan to your individual needs.
Recommended articles
If you are interested in diseases of the musculoskeletal system, we recommend that you read our other articles on this topic, such as “Intervertebral disc herniation – causes and treatment” and “Spine degeneration – how to prevent and treat it”.
It is worth being aware of your spine health and taking appropriate preventive measures, as well as consulting a doctor if any disturbing symptoms appear.