Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of your spinal canal. As your spinal canal narrows, it can put pressure on your spinal cord, causing pain, usually in your neck or lower back.

What are the symptoms of spinal stenosis?

As a result of spinal stenosis, you may develop sciatica, which is a shooting pain that begins in your buttocks or lower back and runs down your leg. Foot drop is another symptom that involves a painful weakness that causes your foot to suddenly drop to the ground.

Pain while standing or walking and loss of bladder or bowel control are other symptoms of spinal stenosis.

What causes spinal stenosis?

• The primary cause of spinal stenosis is aging. Wear and tear on your spine can cause the tissues surrounding your vertebrae to thicken and place pressure on your spinal cord. Most people who have spinal stenosis are 50 or older.
• Some people have a genetic predisposition to spinal stenosis or have experienced an injury that makes it more likely they will develop the condition.
• Arthritis, herniated or bulging discs between your vertebrae, and other health conditions can also increase your risk of developing spinal stenosis.

What treatments are available for spinal stenosis?

A number of treatments can provide effective relief from spinal stenosis. Your age, how advanced your condition is, and any other conditions you may have the will are all factors in determining which option is best for you.

Dr. Reilly typically begins with a conservative approach to treatment, which may include:

• Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers
• Cortisone injections to provide short-term relief
• Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles of your back and abdomen

If conservative treatments prove ineffective, Dr. Reilly also offers several surgical procedures for spinal stenosis, such as:

• Laminectomy: the removal of part of the vertebrae
• Foraminotomy: expanding the area around your nerve roots
• Spinal fusion: a procedure to join the bones of your spine together to increase stability

If you have questions about which approach is best for you, call or book an appointment online at Restore Brain Sport and Spine.