The vertebrae of the spine are stacked on top of each other with discs in between that add cushioning and flexibility to the spine. Each vertebra has a small hole that aligns with holes in neighboring vertebrae. The space created is called the spinal canal, which houses the spinal cord.

Canal stenosis is also called spinal stenosis, central spinal canal stenosis, central canal stenosis or central stenosis. Canal stenosis is the abnormal narrowing of the spinal canal. With age, the discs can shrink and bone spurs can grow making the spinal canal smaller. The narrowing of the spinal canal can cause pinched nerves and complications with the spinal cord. Symptoms may include any of the following:

• Pain that can radiate from the spine
• Clumsiness and frequent falling
• Tingling, numbness or burning sensation
• Difficulty and discomfort when walking
• Symptoms worsen when active
• Symptoms improve when lying down

Canal stenosis can cause a great deal of discomfort and intense pain.

What causes canal stenosis?

The most common cause of canal stenosis is the natural aging process and everyday wear and tear on the spine. The discs in the spine lose water content and don’t work as effectively as they once did. By age 50, most people show signs of spine degeneration. Factors that can contribute to or aggravate canal stenosis include:

• Arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis damages cartilage and can contribute to canal stenosis.

• Injury. A sudden injury or trauma such as a fall, sports accident or motor vehicle accident can damage the spine and lead to canal stenosis.

• Genetic predisposition. A genetic disease or birth defect can cause canal stenosis. These conditions are more common in men than women.

• Spondylolisthesis. This condition causes a vertebra to slide forward over the bone below it, narrowing the spinal canal and causing canal stenosis.

• Tumor. A tumor in or near the spine can narrow the spinal canal.

• Facet joint issues. If you have problems with the facet joints, the flat surface of each vertebra that aligns to form the spinal column, you are more likely to develop canal stenosis.

• Bone spurs. If you experience bone spurs or have any bone overgrowth you are more likely to experience canal stenosis.

• Disc problems. Degeneration of the spinal discs, a herniated disc or a bulging disc can all lead to canal stenosis. The discs normally help to absorb shock and support the spine. If the disc is not functioning properly it can lead to additional spine conditions.

If you think your painful symptoms might be caused by canal stenosis, USA Spine Care can help determine if you are a candidate for minimally invasive spine surgery. Decompression or stabilization surgery can help to alleviate the symptoms of canal stenosis. Contact USA Spine Care today to find out more about canal stenosisand our outpatient procedures.