Spinal stenosis is a relatively common condition with both congenital and acquired causes. The size and shape of the spinal canal may change, often associated with aging. Normally, the vertebral foramina are wide enough to accommodate the nerve fibers branching from the spinal cord. However, if these foramina narrow due to excessive growth of bone or adjacent tissue, nerve compression can occur, leading to pain. The narrowing associated with spinal stenosis may also affect the spinal cord itself, which can invade the available space in the vertebral canal.

Initially, spinal stenosis may be asymptomatic but can worsen over time, causing painful and debilitating conditions. The narrowing of the spinal canal can press against the nerve roots and spinal cord, resulting in pain and discomfort. Symptoms of cervical stenosis are often similar to those of a herniated disc. However, while a herniated disc is an acute event, stenosis is a chronic, slow, and gradual process. Patients with severe cervical stenosis report painful shooting sensations, often like electric shocks, especially when bending their neck forward toward their chest. Cervical stenosis can cause numbness, weakness, and tingling or burning sensations in the arms. Patients with thoracic spinal stenosis often experience pain in the buttocks or tingling in the thighs or legs when standing (extension) or walking. Generally, discomfort eases with leg flexion or rest. In some cases, patients may also experience back pain, as well as pain and weakness in the legs. Symptoms include:

• Reduced muscle strength
• Tingling in the lower limbs
• Low back pain
• Stiffness in the spine
• Loss of balance
  

The diagnosis of spinal stenosis begins with reviewing the patient’s medical history and conducting a physical examination. It’s important to discuss symptoms with your doctor. The physical exam helps assess the severity of the condition and check for any weakness and/or numbness.

Abnormalities in resistance and sensation are evaluated through a neurological exam and are objective signs of chronic compression of the nerve roots due to spinal stenosis.

Patients can be treated with either conservative or intensive care. If symptoms worsen, surgical options may include:

• Surgical decompression
• Spinal fusion