Spinal Stenosis

Neck and lower back pain are often caused by pressure on nerve roots within the spine. When the area reserved for the nerves within the spine narrows, it is called spinal stenosis. This can cause pressure or irritation on the spinal nerves. Spinal stenosis is caused by an injury, disease or degeneration that affects the vertebrae or discs. At Medici Orthopaedics & Spine, we offer diagnosis and treatment for patients suffering from spinal stenosis pain at our clinics in the Atlanta area.

Spinal spondylosis, osteoarthritis, degenerative disc disease, bone spurs and herniated discs are all common causes of spinal stenosis. In addition, spinal stenosis can be a result of any types of growths that limit the space occupied by spinal nerves, like tumors and thickened ligaments. Spinal stenosis is most common in the cervical and lumbar regions of the spine, affecting the neck, arms, lower back and legs. X-rays and MRIs are used to help diagnose spinal stenosis and the underlying cause of the narrowing of the spinal nerve space.

Symptoms and Treatments for Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis may occur without any symptoms. If the nerves are impacted, pain, numbness and weakness in the affected muscles can occur. In the cervical spine, symptoms may be felt in the neck, shoulders and arms. In the lumbar spine, pain, numbness and weakness can affect the lower back, hips and legs. Symptoms may come and go with certain movements that put more pressure on that area of the spine. Changing positions or stretching could alleviate symptoms in some cases.

Treatment for spinal stenosis depends on what is causing the pressure on the nerves in the spine. Conservative treatments include injections, physical therapy, medication management and electrical stimulation. If an intrusion or injury is causing pressure on the nerves, surgery may be required to repair the spine or remove tumors or bone spurs.

If you have worsening pain in your back or neck that is impacting your quality of life, contact us at Medici Orthopaedics & Spine today. We will help diagnose your spinal condition and find an appropriate treatment option to give you relief.