is a
Medical condition where the
Spinal Canal narrows and pinches the
Spinal Cord and
Nerves , usually due to
Disc Herniation or a
Tumour .
This may affect the
Cervical Spine , the
Lumbar Spine or both. Lumbar spinal stenosis results in low
Back Pain as well as
Pain or abnormal sensations in the
Leg s.
The main causes of include
Cervical Spondylosis ,
Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis (DISH), or
Calcification of the posterior longitudinal ligament.
CS stenosis is more common in
Male s than
Female s, and is mainly found in the 40-60 year age group.
Sign s of CS stenosis include spastic gait; upper extremity numbness; upper extremity, lower extremity weakness or both;
Radicular Pain in the
Upper Limb ; sphincter disturbances;
Muscle Wasting ;
Sensory Deficit s; and
Reflex abnormalities in reflexes.
The best diagnostic and investigative tool is
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and
Computed Tomograghy (CT) is not useful.
If the problem is mild, treatment may be as simple as
Physiotherapy and the use of a
Cervical Collar .
If severe, treatments include
Laminectomy or
Decompression .
The main causes of include
Hypertrophy of the
Facet Joint s;
Spondylolisthesis ; diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH); and degenerative disc disease.
Usually, this condition occurs after the age of 50, and both genders are equally affected.
Signs of LS stenosis include neurogenic
Claudication that causes leg pain, weakness, and loss of
Deep Tendon Reflex es. With lumbar spinal stenosis, the patient's pain usually is worse while walking and will feel better after sitting down. The patient is usually more comfortable while leaning forward.
As with CS stenosis, MRI is the best imaging procedure, though unlike with CS stenosis, CT may be somewhat useful, and can be used if MRI is unavailable.
Treatment includes
Weight Loss , and activity modification, such as using a
Walker to promote a certain
Posture . Epidural steroid injections may also help relieve the leg pain. If the symptoms are more severe, a laminectomy or
Foraminotomy may be indicated.
