Understanding Spinal Stenosis: Symptoms & Treatment Options [Video]

Degenerative spinal changes affect up to 95% of people by age 50. Among these changes, spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spaces within your spine, is a common condition that can significantly affect your quality of life. This condition is typically characterized based on the region of the spine affected, most commonly occurring in the cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) regions.

Symptoms of Spinal StenosisThe symptoms of spinal stenosis vary depending on the location and severity of the narrowing. Common symptoms include pain, numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness. Patients may experience difficulty walking, balance issues, and, in severe cases, bowel or bladder dysfunction. These symptoms worsen over time, especially if the condition is left untreated.

Causes of Spinal StenosisAge-related degenerative changes primarily cause spinal stenosis. As people age, the ligaments in the spine can thicken and calcify, while the intervertebral discs may lose height and bulge. Additionally, bone spurs can form on the vertebrae, contributing …