Are you experiencing neck pain, tingling, weakness, or numbness in the foot, leg, or arm? If so, you are not alone! Nearly 500,000 Americans experience this daunting symptom, which, more often than not, are triggered by spinal stenosis. This problem happens when the gaps between your vertebrae narrow, exerting pressure on your spinal nerves. A narrow spine could be present at birth or occur with time. Symptoms might range from non-existent to severe; thus, disrupting your favorite hobbies and reducing the time you spend with those who are dear to you. While you may be aware of the symptoms of Georgetown spinal stenosis, do you recognize what precisely triggers this condition? Understanding the root cause of your condition plays a huge role in determining the ideal care plan for you. Read on to find out more.
Disc Herniation
Your spine is composed of nerves, bones, and spinal discs, which act as rubbery cushions. These discs reside between every vertebra, providing stability and shock resistance while safeguarding the nerves that encircle them.
Once the nucleus presses through the annulus, the outside rubbery covering, the disc’s soft center, constricts the surrounding nerve; hence, causing a disc herniation.
Disc herniation could occur anywhere along the spine. Though age and normal spine degeneration are the probable reasons for disc herniation, other risk factors entail:
- Occupation
- Genetics
- Weight; being obese or overweight
- Smoking
- Sedentary living
Bone Overgrowth
Osteoarthritis could wreak havoc on your spine’s bones, leading to the formation of bone spurs. These bone spurs might develop into the canals in your spine; thus, narrowing them.
Paget’s disease could also result in bone overgrowth, resulting in less spinal room and nerve compression. Once nerves in your limbs are squeezed, you may suffer discomfort, numbness, or tingling.
Thickened Ligaments
Ligaments are the sturdy cords that connect your spine to the rest of your body. With aging, ligaments could stiffen and thicken. Once this occurs, they could impinge on your spinal cord and/or nerves, inducing pain and irritation.
Tumors
Spinal tumors are aberrant developments that develop between the spinal cord and vertebrae or in the membranes surrounding the spinal cord. These additional developments might cause nerve pressure by narrowing the spinal canal. They could be benign or malignant, but they are unusual.
Spine Injury
Spinal stenosis could develop as a result of sports injuries or automobile collisions. Vertebral fracture or dislocation may cause injury to the spinal canal and culminate in a displaced bone; hence, exerting strain on your spinal cord and nerves.
Inflammation following back surgery might also cause unnecessary pressure.
Do not wait till your spinal symptoms become incapacitating to get help. At Republic Spine and Pain, the certified experts offer advanced treatment options to help alleviate your symptoms and address the root cause of your concern. The specialist first begins your therapy with conservative options such as physical therapy, bracing, muscle relaxing drugs. If these options fail to offer you relief, your doctor may suggest Vertiflex® and surgery. To explore your options and determine what procedure is ideal for you, schedule a consultation through mobile or request online.
