Symptoms of canal stenosis can occur when a damaged component of the spine, such as a bulging or herniated disc, causes a reduction of space within the spinal canal, the protective area that houses the spinal cord. However, some patients with this condition may not experience any symptoms at all and may even be unaware that they have canal stenosis.
Usually, canal stenosis symptoms only appear when the reduction of the space within the spinal canal leads to compression of a nerve root or the spinal cord. These symptoms may appear mildly but can also progress as the nerve compression worsens. This is why it is important for individuals with symptoms of canal stenosis to consult with a physician. Some symptoms of canal stenosis caused by nerve compression include:
- Pain at the site of compression
- Pain that radiates along the pathway of the affected nerve
- Numbness and tingling in the extremities
- Muscle weakness
- Difficulty walking (when the nerve compression occurs in the lower region of the spine)
How is canal stenosis treated?
For many patients, treatment for canal stenosis begins with a regimen of conservative methods like pain medication, physical therapy, hot and cold therapy and epidural steroid injections. If canal stenosis symptoms persist after several weeks or months of conservative treatment, surgery may become the next best option. Contact USA Spine Care today to learn about the minimally invasive outpatient surgery our board-certified+ surgeons perform for patients with canal stenosis. Our procedures are a safer and effective alternative to traditional open spine surgery^ and we will be glad to provide you with a free MRI review* to determine if you are a candidate.
