Spinal stenosis

Description

The spaces inside the bones of the spine get too small.

Overview

Spinal stenosis can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves in the spine. Spinal stenosis happens most often in the lower back and in the neck. Spinal stenosis becomes more common with age. The condition often is linked to wear-and-tear damage in the spine due to arthritis.

Symptoms

In many people, spinal stenosis doesn't cause any symptoms. Others may have pain, tingling, numbness or muscle weakness. When symptoms do happen, they typically start slowly and can get worse over time. Symptoms depend on which part of the spine is affected by spinal stenosis.

Treatments

Treatments for spinal stenosis may include anti-inflammatory medicines to relieve swelling and pain. Physical therapy might help. Other treatments are steroid injections and surgery to make more space in the spine.