What Is Spinal Stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of spaces in the spine, which places pressure on nerves. It usually occurs in the lower back and neck, and symptoms vary from one person to another. To know for sure, you'll need to visit Drs. George Kollias, Autumn Scaz, and Elissa Pally of Sheldon Road Chiropractic & Massage Therapy in Tampa, Florida.

How do symptoms vary?

Some people have no symptoms, but others experience several symptoms:

• pain
• tingling
• numbness
• muscle weakness

Symptoms vary depending on which nerves are affected and require an MRI or CT scan for proper diagnosis. Take into consideration that many symptoms worsen overtime and other symptoms of spinal stenosis include problems with walking and balance, neck pain, bowel or bladder dysfunction, pain or cramping in one or both legs, and back pain.

What's the cause of spinal stenosis?

It's caused by wear-and-tear in the spine and severe cases, your chiropractor may recommend surgery to relieve pressure off the spinal cord or nerves. Other causes include:

1. Overgrowth of bone from osteoarthritis on your spinal bones creates bone spurs.
2. Herniated disks, which occurs because the soft cushions that act as shock absorbers dry out.
3. Ligaments that stiffen over time.
4. Tumors are uncommon but identifiable using an MRI or CT scan when you visit your Tampa chiropractor.
5. Spinal injuries, like car accidents and other trauma.

Types of Spinal Stenosis

• Cervical stenosis, which is the narrowing of the spine in your neck.
• Lumbar stenosis, which is narrowing of the spine in your lower back

Who's at risk of spinal stenosis?

Age plays a big part, especially if you are over 50. Degenerative changes cause spinal stenosis in younger people, as well as trauma, congenital spinal deformity, and genetics in general. MRI or CT scans pinpoint the cause of spinal stenosis.

Need to speak with a chiropractor?

If you'd like to learn more about spinal stenosis, you can contact Drs. George Kollias, Autumn Scaz, and Elissa Pally of Sheldon Road Chiropractic & Massage Therapy in Tampa, Florida, by calling 813-884-1457.