Spinal Stenosis

Spinal Stenosis Treatment in Chembur, Mumbai

Our spine is made up of a column of bones that provide support and stability to our upper body. It also helps us twist and turn. Spinal nerves run within the vertebrae columns and carry signals from the brain to the various parts of our body. These nerves make up our spinal cord. If these nerves get damaged, it can have an adverse impact on our balance, sensation, and walking ability. In spinal stenosis, the hollow spaces in our spinal column become narrow and start compressing our spinal cord.

Types of Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is classified into two different types, depending on the part of the spine where the condition occurs. The two primary types of spinal stenosis are:

• Cervical stenosis: In this type, the narrowing of the spinal canal occurs in the neck area.
• Lumbar stenosis: In this type, the narrowing of the spinal canal affects the spine in the lower back. This is the most commonly seen form of spinal stenosis.

Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis

The different symptoms of spinal stenosis become more apparent with time as the nerves become more compressed. Some common symptoms associated with spinal stenosis include:

• Weakness in the arms or legs.
• Pain in the lower back while walking or standing.
• Numbness in the buttocks or legs.
• Problems with balance.

Causes of Spinal Stenosis

The primary cause of spinal stenosis is aging. When we age, the tissues in our spine start thickening, and the bones tend to get bigger. Due to this, they end up compressing the nerves. Besides aging, some health conditions can also contribute to spinal stenosis. These include:

• Congenital Spinal Stenosis
• Ankylosing Spondylitis
• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Achondroplasia
• Ossification of Posterior Longitudinal Ligament (OPLL)
• Scoliosis
• Paget’s disease
• Spinal injuries
• Spinal tumors

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the symptoms associated with spinal stenosis, you must get it checked by a pain management specialist. If you are looking for a spinal stenosis specialist in Mumbai, get in touch with us.

You can request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Chembur, Mumbai.

Call1860 500 2244 to book an appointment.

Treatment Options for Spinal Stenosis

To treat your condition of spinal stenosis, the doctor would most likely begin by prescribing medications. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed to alleviate pain. Cortisone injections may also be advised to reduce swelling in the spinal column. You may also be recommended physical therapy to help stretch your muscles and strengthen them.
Surgery

In case of severe weakness or pain, your doctor may advise you to go for surgery. Surgery may also be considered if the condition adversely affects your ability to walk, do other routine activities, or control your bladder or bowel. Various surgeries are performed to treat spinal stenosis. These include:

• Laminectomy: Most commonly used, it involves removing a part of the vertebrae or giving more room to the nerves.
• Foraminotomy: This surgery is performed to widen a part of your spine where the nerves exit.
• Spinal fusion: This surgery is done in severe cases where multiple levels of your spine are affected. Metal implants or bone grafts are used to fuse different bones of the spine.

Conclusion

Spinal stenosis usually affects people over the age of 50 or those who have suffered an injury of the spine. A large number of people with spinal stenosis are able to lead active and full lives. However, you may have to alter your day-to-day activities or your workout routine to manage the symptoms better. Your doctor may recommend medications, surgical options, or physical therapy to help alleviate pain or other symptoms. Speak with your doctor to understand the treatment options better.