Disc disease treatment – What leads to spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis refers to a disorder which occurs because of narrowing of the spinal cord. Spinal narrowing occurs because of degeneration of both the intervertebral discs and facet joints. Some spurs also grow into the spinal cord in this condition. Also face joints enlarges because they become arthritic. This, in turn, contributes to a decrease in space which is available for the nerve roots.  It is important to get timely treatment for any kind of disc disease. Disc disease treatment can help patients fulfil day to day activities without being dependent on others.

The spinal column ligaments, particularly the ligamentum flavum over the period of time become less flexible, stiff and thickens with age. This further contributes to the problem of spinal stenosis. These procedures together narrow spinal canal and might start to impinge and thus put pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots leading to the symptoms of spinal stenosis.

Stenosis of the spine might occur in the central spine where the coda equine or spinal cord are located; in the lateral foramen where individual nerve roots exist out of the human body, or in the tract where the nerve roots exit the lateral recess stenosis that is the central canal.

Some people who suffer from disc disease have no symptoms while others often complain of inability to walk or mild discomfort which happens in the lower back. Patients who suffer from severe spinal stenosis might start experiencing pain in thighs, legs or buttocks, which further intensifies with walking or standing. The condition improves with rest. In some cases, the patient also complains of weakness and leg pain. Weakness in the lower extremities, tingling, and numbness are more severe symptoms of this condition. 

Spinal stenosis relief is possible by following the treatment as prescribed the orthopedic surgeon. Dr. Erik Bendiks make sure that patients get treatment as per the current condition of spinal stenosis. He is one of the renowned and popular surgeons who have been treating spine problems for more than a decade.