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Spinal stenosis

Spinal stenosis – what is it exactly?

Spinal stenosis, also known as spinal canal stenosis, refers to a narrowing of the spinal canal. The spinal canal is also known as the spinal canal, which explains the naming of this type of stenosis. Not every spinal stenosis necessarily leads to complaints. Especially in the early stages, there are no or hardly noticeable symptoms. Only over time does the increasing narrowing of the spinal canal lead to significant impairment.

Persistent spinal stenosis manifests itself not only in a narrow spinal canal. It constricts the nerve roots and causes mild to severe back pain. The pain usually occurs during movement, such as walking. Other activities, such as cycling or sitting in general, result in relief of pain. There is a stretching of the spinal canal and the nerves have enough space again.

Spinal stenosis is divided into two variants: lumbar and cervical spinal stenosis. Lumbar spinal stenosis occurs in the lumbar spine, while the cervical variant affects the cervical spine.

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Orthopädie Zentrum München Ost - Wirbelsäule - Erkrankungen

Table of Contents:

Spinal stenosis causes – what is behind it?
What are the typical symptoms of spinal stenosis?

How can spinal stenosis be diagnosed?
Treatment spinal stenosis – what options are available in this area?
Is it possible to prevent spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis causes – what is behind it?

Primarily, spinal stenosis occurs with age, due to natural wear and tear. The intervertebral discs wear out and can no longer fully perform their function as a natural damper. However, it may also be a congenital spinal stenosis. In this case, the pedicles, which serve as connecting links between the vertebral body and joint, are shortened and thickened.

Acquired spinal canal stenosis / spinal canal stenosis is usually caused by a herniated disc or vertebral joint arthrosis. This also applies to cervical spinal stenosis. Other causes of spinal stenosis:

Injuries in the area of the vertebral bodies
Scarring after spinal cord surgery
certain bone diseases

The so-called spondylolisthesis can also be a trigger. It is an instability in certain areas of the spine, causing the vertebrae to slip. If left untreated, spondylolisthesis can lead to spinal stenosis.

What are the typical symptoms of spinal stenosis?

As with many other conditions, spinal stenosis can manifest itself in a variety of ways. At the same time, the back pain may mean a herniated disc and not spinal stenosis. The back pain often radiates to both legs, sometimes only on one side. In the early stages, the pain is felt only in the thigh, but soon affects the entire leg. Other signs that may indicate spinal stenosis:

Restrictions in movement (lumbar spine)
Tension in the area of the lower back
Deterioration of the leg muscles

If spinal stenosis is already far advanced, the bladder and bowel can also be affected. Incontinence and loss of control during bowel movements can be the result. Sometimes sexual function may also be affected.

How can spinal stenosis be diagnosed?

At our Orthopedics Center Munich East, our physicians place great emphasis on a comprehensive, thorough diagnosis. It is important to take a detailed medical history in order to obtain an overview of existing illnesses, previous illnesses and illnesses in the family environment. If the suspicion of spinal stenosis is confirmed, further diagnostic measures can be applied:

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Therapy)
CT (computed tomography)
Functional and stress myelography

Myelography can be used to precisely localize the narrowing of the spinal canal.

Treatment spinal stenosis – what options are available in this area?

In early-stage spinal stenosis, much can be achieved, especially with conservative treatment. There are a number of options in the area of conservative treatment methods, such as physiotherapeutic measures. Muscle relaxing treatments or special exercises can relieve the spine. Other examples of conservative therapies:

Support corset for relief and support of the spine
Taking special, pain-relieving medications
Back School

Spinemed: With the help of this computer-monitored system, the vertebrae can be specifically relieved. In principle, it is a spinal decompression, which is intended to achieve a reduction in intradiscal pressure.

Various minimally invasive treatment methods are also possible for this disease. Radiofrequency thermal lesioning allows the nerves to be specifically turned off by heat. The same works with cold, namely within the framework of a so-called cryodenervation. The following forms of therapy also fall into the minimally invasive range:

Facet therapy : Vertebral joints are also called facet joints, which explains the name of this type of therapy. Facet therapy is a CT-assisted type of pain therapy. The aim is to be able to treat the affected nerve root directly at the facet joint.

Injection therapy of the vertebral joints: BV control makes it possible to place injections specifically in the region of the affected joint.

Nerve root treatment: Peridacular therapy is also performed using BV control. The injection catheter is placed exactly close to the nerve root.

If spinal stenosis cannot be treated with conservative or minimally invasive treatment methods, surgery is inevitable. This can be done in various ways, for example, one places special implants in the area of the spine.

Is it possible to prevent spinal stenosis?

In the actual sense, this is not possible, but there are certain behaviors that will make your spine permanently healthier. Getting enough exercise is important, and cycling in particular is great for keeping your spine moving. Avoid incorrect postures, which can cause damage to the back. Other preventive measures:

Overweight prevention
Strengthening of the back muscles through special exercises

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