There are varying degrees of foraminal stenosis. Mild cases may not cause any symptoms, while moderate or severe cases can significantly interfere with a person’s daily life.

Foraminal stenosis occurs when displaced tissue — typically a bone spur or herniated disc material — presses against the spine and obstructs a small opening between vertebrae. These openings allow spinal nerve roots to branch out to other parts of the body. When an opening is reduced, the nerves inside can become compressed, leading to a variety of symptoms.

Is foraminal stenosis progressive?

This condition can be progressive, meaning that it can gradually worsen with time. Symptoms may not be present when there is little to no nerve compression. As the spinal degeneration becomes more pronounced, however, nerves can become increasingly compressed, causing them to send out pain signals throughout the body. This can also lead to neurological symptoms such as tingling, numbness and muscle weakness along the path of an affected nerve.

While conservative treatments such as medications and physical therapy can help relieve the symptoms of foraminal stenosis, surgery is the only way to actually address the anatomical changes that are causing the problem. Not everyone with this condition requires surgery, but those who experience persistent, treatment-resistant symptoms may consider minimally invasive surgery as a potential option.

Minimally invasive surgery for foraminal stenosis

At USA Spine Care, we perform minimally invasive surgery for individuals whose foraminal stenosis symptoms have not responded to nonsurgical therapies. Our procedures are performed on an outpatient basis using muscle-sparing techniques. As a result, most of our patients are up and walking on the same day as their operation.^ Because our procedures can actually create additional space for compressed nerves and nerve roots, we have helped many people find much-needed symptom relief when nonsurgical treatments haven’t adequately masked their symptoms.

If you’re interested in learning more about foraminal stenosis surgery at USA Spine Care, contact us today. We can review* your MRI for free to help you find out if you’re a candidate for our outpatient treatment options.

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