Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can compress the nerves and cause pain, weakness, or difficulty walking.

Signs and symptoms

It may present one or more of the
following:
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  • Backache
    _
  • Pain in
    legs when
    walking
  • Tingling or
    loss of
    sensation
  • Weakness in
    limbs
  • Causes of spinal stenosis
    • Degenerative changes: Arthritis and age-related wear and tear are the main causes, leading to thickening of ligaments and the formation of bone spurs.

      Herniated discs: Intervertebral discs can lose height and bulge, taking up space in the canal.

      Congenital factors: Being born with a narrower spinal canal.
  • Types of spinal stenosis
    • According to the Affected Anatomical Area:
      Central Stenosis and Lateral/Foraminal Stenosis

      According to the Region of the Spine:

      Lumbar Stenosis: More frequently, it affects the lower back, causing pain or weakness in the legs and buttocks.

      Cervical Stenosis: It affects the neck and can compress the spinal cord, with symptoms that can radiate to the arms and hands.

      Thoracic Stenosis: Uncommon, it is located in the middle of the back.

      According to the degree of stenosis:
      Mild, moderate, or severe.
  • Risk factors
    • RISK FACTORS:
      1. Advanced Age
      2. Osteoartritis de la Columna
      3. Obesity and Nutrition
      4. Previous Injuries or Surgeries
      5. Estilo de Vida y Profesión
      6. Congenital Conditions
      7. Bone Diseases
  • Complications
    • Progressive Neurological Deficit:
      Numbness, tingling, and significant weakness in arms or legs.

      Mobility Problems: Difficulty walking, maintaining balance, or standing for long periods (neurogenic claudication).

      Incontinence: Loss of bowel or bladder control.

      Chronic Pain: Intense pain in the lower back or neck, often radiating.

      Paralysis: In severe and advanced cases, partial paralysis of the legs.

      Sexual Dysfunction: Alterations in sexual function due to nerve compression.
  • When to consult a specialist
    • Dolor persistente: Dolor en la espalda o cuello que no desaparece con reposo, terapia física o medicamentos.

      Progressive weakness: Loss of strength in legs or arms that affects mobility.

      Numbness or tingling: Constant sensation in the extremities.

      Neurogenic claudication: Difficulty walking long distances or standing, relieved by sitting or leaning forward. Body problems: Loss of bladder or bowel control (requires immediate attention)

    • Specialist in spinal pathologies

    Each case requires

    a different approach.

    Not all back pain requires surgery. The first step is a specialist evaluation to identify the source of the problem and determine the most appropriate treatment for each patient.