Spinal Stenosis
There are two types of spinal stenosis: lumbar and cervical. In lumbar stenosis, the spinal nerve roots in the lower back are compressed, causing symptoms of sciatica. Spinal stenosis pain in the neck (cervical spinal stenosis) can be far more
dangerous by compressing the spinal cord. Approximately 75% of cases of spinal stenosis occur in the lumbar spine, and most will affect the sciatic nerve which runs along the back of the leg.
Causes:
Overgrowth of bone, herniated disks, thickened ligaments due to age, tumors near the spinal cord, and spinal injuries.
Symptoms:
Lumbar spinal stenosis causes pain or cramping in the legs (sciatica) when standing or walking, low back pain, leg numbness or tingling, and limitations in walking. Pain generally comes and goes and is relieved by sitting or lying down.
Cervical symptoms include Neck and shoulder pain, or radicular symptoms to the arms or hands. Muscle atrophy is also a common issue in cervical spinal stenosis.
Solution:
After a thorough examination Dr. O’Hara will confirm the presence of spinal stenosis. Decompression of the nerve will alleviate these symptoms. Decompression is achieved by a number of therapies including: Chiropractic adjustment of the spine, muscle stimulation therapy, ice, and specific muscle stretching.