Spinal stenosis affects the space within your spine and can irritate or compress the nerves or the spinal cord. In case you are diagnosed with this condition, you may experience pain and worsening symptoms over time. For this reason, board-certified interventional pain management physician Ajay Varma, MD, DABA, DABAPM, is specialized in the treatment of such symptoms to help patients with spinal stenosis in Holmdel, NJ.
However, before you get medical assistance from the expert, the more you know about spinal stenosis, the better as you will be more equipped to discuss your diagnosis and treatment option with your doctor. To help you in that, here are seven crucial facts you should know about spinal stenosis.
- There are Two Types of Spinal Stenosis
Because your spine is long, extending from your skull base to your tailbone, spinal stenosis can be classified according to the specific region affected. If the narrowing of the spinal canal happens around the neck area, the condition can be said to be cervical spinal stenosis. If the narrowing happens in your lower back area, you can be said to have lumbar spinal stenosis.
The symptoms you experience also depends on the region affected. You can experience weakness or tingling in your arm, hand, leg, or feet and numbness and pain in the neck for cervical stenosis. You can experience lower back pain and numbness and tingling or weakness on your foot or arm for lumbar stenosis. You can also experience leg pain or cramps when you stand if you have lumbar stenosis.
- Spinal Stenosis is Common to Those Over 50
As you age, the channel created by spinal bones for the spinal cord can experience wear and tear, which can take their toll on the bones. The spinal cord is a complex bundle of nerves connecting the brain to the rest of the body, and therefore, when it is affected by wear and tear, it can lead to spinal stenosis complications. However, even those younger than 50 can experience spinal stenosis, particularly if they suffer from spinal injuries.
- There is No Cure for Spinal Stenosis
Yes! Spinal stenosis has no cure; it is rather a progressive condition. If not managed, your spinal canal will continue to narrow down, and the condition can become more severe. However, medical and surgical interventions help to decrease the symptoms of spinal stenosis and improve function.
- Exercises are Essential for Managing Spinal Stenosis Symptoms
Although they cannot fix the condition, exercises can relieve some of the symptoms, such as pain, and improve your functionality. Strengthening the muscles provides additional support to the spine, decreasing the pain.
- Surgery is The Mainstay of Spinal Stenosis Treatment
The majority of those who are diagnosed with spinal stenosis, their symptoms improve substantially without surgical procedures. This is through over the counter medications, prescription medications, or physical therapy. However, this is only achieved for mild or come and go symptoms. In severe cases, surgery is the ideal option to relieve the symptoms of spinal stenosis.
- Spinal Stenosis Surgery Can be Tailored
If non-surgical procedures fail to relieve your symptoms, surgery is the only option that can help you. One good thing is that it can be tailored according to your specific condition and needs depending on your overall health, your provider’s experience, and your preferences.
- The recovery Period Can Extend to Months after Surgery.
Although you may experience significant improvements after the surgery, it can take you several months to fully recover. You may continue to improve for up to 18 months.
Why then battle Spinal Stenosis while Gramercy Pain Center can help you out. Reach out to them today and share your experience.
