The spine is made up of vertebrae. The vertebrae are connected by discs, which consist of a gel-like material that acts as a shock absorber. Discs may become damaged, especially in people who have suffered trauma to their back or neck. This can lead to nerve compression and damage to the spinal cord, which can cause pain and loss of function. The spine can also develop spinal stenosis Houston. It is a condition that occurs when the spinal canal narrows due to bone deterioration (osteophyte), bone spurs, or bone spurs. The condition may be congenital or acquired by injury, disease, or other factors.
Below are the leading causes of spinal stenosis;
Degenerative changes: The spinal cord is a delicate and vulnerable structure. Over time, the normal changes in the spinal cord as we age can cause degeneration and weakening of the surrounding area.
Herniated discs: In many cases, degeneration or injury to the disc is what leads to spinal stenosis. A herniated disc is a condition where one or more of the intervertebral discs in between your vertebrae become inflamed, ruptured, or bulge into your spinal canal. A herniated disc can cause severe pain and nerve damage if not treated properly.
Arthritis: If the spine has arthritis, it may cause bone degeneration. This can cause the spine to narrow or flatten, leading to spinal stenosis. The most common type of arthritis that causes spinal stenosis is osteoarthritis.
Spinal infections: Some types of infections caused by bacteria or viruses can lead to inflammation and swelling in bones near the spine called vertebrae. This can cause nerve damage that causes weakness or numbness in legs or arms caused by pressure on nerves from ligaments or joints nearby.
Treatment options for spinal stenosis disease
Medications
Medications for spinal stenosis include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and local anesthetics. NSAIDs work by reducing pain, swelling, and inflammation. Corticosteroids reduce inflammation in the body and decrease inflammation in other areas of the body caused by injury or illness.
Lifestyle changes
Lifestyle changes are part of non-surgical treatment plans for people with spinal stenosis symptoms. It may improve function and reduce pain levels by promoting good posture, balance, muscle strength, and flexibility. These lifestyle changes include exercise programs, proper nutrition, and avoiding injury when possible.
Physical therapy
Physical therapy can help improve muscle strength, range of motion, and flexibility to relieve some of your pain from spinal stenosis. It can also help prevent further damage to your spine from repetitive movements that increase pressure on nerve roots.
Heat therapy
Heat therapy uses adhesions to loosen scar tissue and other blockages in your spine. This type of therapy is recommended for people who have had surgery or injections that did not work or who have pain from their spinal stenosis symptoms.
If you have been diagnosed with spinal stenosis, it is essential that you learn about these treatment options and how they can improve your life. If you have pain in your back affecting your motion and flexibility, do not hesitate to call Houston Pain Specialists.
