Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is narrowing of the spinal passages. It is a condition that becomes more common as we age and typically present as localized spine pain along with pain in one or both extremities. Stenosis is a degenerative condition that results in the narrowing of the spinal canal in the vertebrae of the spine. The restriction causes pressure on the spinal canal and the nerves producing pain. Spinal stenosis is not a condition that develops overnight; it is almost always preceded by more common conditions such as spinal bone spurs, a herniated disc, disc bulges, disc tears, or scarring from previous injuries or treatments. Over time, if these other conditions are left un-treated and allowed to progress, symptoms of spinal stenosis will begin to be felt. For this reason, it is very important to be pro-active in dealing with your pain before it gets worse. Dr. Francis is a fellowship-trained, board-certified spine surgeon and has extensive experience treating spinal stenosis. Spine Associates offers accurate diagnosis and advanced treatment for a variety of spinal conditions.

To learn more about treatments for spinal stenosis, request a consultation in Houston or Beaumont. Or you can call us at 1-713-383-7100 to schedule your appointment.

Symptoms

CERVICAL STENOSIS (Neck)

• Pain in the neck, shoulders, arms, and hands
• Loss of coordination or muscle weakness in the arms and hands
• Problems with balance.
• Tingling or numbness in the shoulder, arms, or hands

LUMBAR STENOSIS (Back)

• Numbness and tingling or cramping in thighs and legs
• Muscle weakness or loss of motor function in the extremities that may worsen when sitting or bending
• Stiffness in thighs or legs
• Sharp constant pain that may affect standing or walking
• Loss of bladder or bowel control in extreme cases. *Requires immediate medical attention*

Diagnosis

Spinal stenosis is not a condition that develops overnight. Over time, if these other conditions are left un-treated and allowed to progress, symptoms of spinal stenosis will begin to be felt. For this reason, it is very important to be pro-active in dealing with your pain before it gets worse. If symptoms are intense and continue for several weeks, it’s likely you need treatment. Dr. Francis is highly experienced in diagnosing spinal stenosis and other spinal disorders as well as providing both surgical and non-surgical care.

Treatment

Dr. Francis takes a conservative approach by recommending non-surgical treatments whenever possible. He recommends surgery as a last resort when symptoms do not improve with conservative measures. Treatment options for spinal stenosis may include one or a combination of the following:

• Modified Physical Activity
• Medication
• Physical therapy
• Minimally Invasive lumbar laminectomy or ACDF if symptoms persist or are severe