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Pain caused by spinal stenosis (narrowed spinal canal) is highly treatable with the help of the experts at NeuroSpine Center of Wisconsin in Appleton, Oshkosh, North Fond du Lac, and Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. The exceptional neurosurgical and orthopedic spine surgery team provides treatments that relieve back pain and other symptoms of spinal stenosis. Schedule an evaluation by phone to reduce pain and the risk of complications.
Spinal Stenosis Q & A
What is spinal stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is a condition that affects your spine. It causes the space inside of your backbone (spinal canal) to become too small, putting pressure on the spinal cord and affected nerves. Spinal stenosis can affect the spine in your neck or back, particularly the lower back. Treating your condition offers much-needed pain relief and a better quality of life.
Which symptoms can spinal stenosis cause?
Spinal stenosis can cause the following symptoms:
- Neck pain
- Back pain
- Tingling
- Numbness
- Muscle weakness
- Leg pain or cramping
- Pain while standing or walking
- Balance problems
- Bowel or bladder issues
You may not have any symptoms, at least initially, but over time, mild symptoms can slowly progress if not addressed.
What may increase my risk of spinal stenosis?
Factors that can contribute to developing spinal stenosis include the following:
- Age-related wear to the spine
- Being over age 50
- Arthritis
- Being born with a small spinal canal
- Bone spurs
- Herniated discs
- Tumors
- Thickened ligaments near the spine
- Spinal injuries
Common causes of spinal injuries include car accidents, sports injuries, and other types of trauma.
How does my spine specialist diagnose spinal stenosis?
Diagnosing spinal stenosis often involves a review of your medical history and symptoms, a physical exam, and imaging procedures. Your provider might order X-rays, an MRI, or a CT scan to pinpoint the root cause of neck or back pain and treat it effectively.
How is spinal stenosis treated?
Treatments for spinal stenosis at NeuroSpine Center of Wisconsin depend on the severity of your symptoms. Your provider may suggest you try:
- Healthy lifestyle changes
- Massage therapy
- Manual therapy
- Medications
- Steroid injections
- Physical therapy
- Needle procedures to reduce ligament thickness
- Surgery
- Chiropractic care
NeuroSpine Center of Wisconsin specializes in advanced surgical techniques, including treatments for spinal stenosis. During surgery, your provider uses cutting-edge techniques to widen your spinal canal and ease nerve pressure. They may remove part of a spinal bone, disc, or other tissues — or place a medical device in your spine to keep the spinal canal open wide.
Healthy habits that reduce your risk of spinal stenosis pain include maintaining an ideal weight, eating nutritious foods, and getting regular exercise.
The NeuroSpine Center of Wisconsin team tailors each treatment plan to your needs and follows up to ensure long-lasting pain relief and an exceptional quality of life.
Schedule a spinal stenosis consultation at NeuroSpine Center of Wisconsin by phone today.