Spinal stenosis – Various locations and clinical symptoms

What makes stenosis to occur?

Spinal stenosis is a serious condition responsible for many pathological disturbances, blood circulatory defects and neurological deficits. Within the spinal canal or anywhere between the peripheral nervous system, the hindrance to normal functioning is largely caused by an infected cavity, a tumor growth, prolapsed disc, and fracture in the vertebral body or dislocation of the vertebra like in spondylolisthesis.

How does spinal structuring contribute to severity of stenosis?

The making of our spine is such that it protects all its vital components out of which spinal cord is of most importance.

The cord is a fragile organ most vulnerable to traumas, jerks, sudden unexpected falls etc, hence is covered by a protective layer called dural sheath and is further placed within a canal made up of many vertebrae. The vertebrae are lined up as stacks and have foramen on each side for the spinal nerves. Extent of stenosis depends upon the location where the cord or nerve is compressed.

Early signs of recognition

•          Pain occurs and increases while walking.
•          Pain does not subside if patient stops walking instead reduce if patient bends a little or sits down.
•          There are signs like numbness and needle sensations which are suggestive of neurogenic claudication.
•          Older people may stumble if they attempt to walk after relative inactivity.

These are the most common signs presented by patients with stenosis at the spine and pain centers.

Various kinds of spinal stenosis

Central stenosis: The canal is obstructed centrally due to plenty of reasons like ligament loosening, bigger disc bulge or vertebral overgrowths. This occurs due to instability at the multiple levels of spine because of which the prime ligaments become non functional in supporting the spine from both sides. Furthermore, the left out extensions of cord and bundle of nerves which are suppose to descend down till the tail bone are curtailed at the lumbar level itself and result in altered nerve supply to entire leg. 

Foramina stenosis: This is a common form of stenosis, observed in many patients who initially complain of leg pain. As the nerve becomes ready to leave the spinal canal and the vertebral foramen it is obstructed by bone spurs or a disc bulge.

Far lateral stenosis: This may not necessary occur near the spinal cord. The nerve can get compressed anywhere after it has crossed the vertebra by disc tear and its exudates or by small bony growths of vertebrae.

Self care tips for spinal stenosis

•          Seek pain relief by the pain specialist.
•          Enhance postural awareness.
•          Practice relaxation techniques.
•          Make yourself more and more dynamic.
•          Manage your own tasks every day.
•          Exercise daily under a therapist supervision.