Spinal stenosis is one of many common issues seen in modern chiropractic offices today and is defined as a progressive, painful condition of the spine. It can occur anywhere within the spinal column but tends to most commonly be noted in the upper area of the neck and shoulders and is also common in the lumbar area of the lower back. Spinal stenosis technically is defined as a narrowing of the hollow opening that is naturally present in each of the vertebra of the spine- these hollow areas are where the spinal cord runs.
As the opening gets narrow and more constricted it can dig into the spinal cord and also can cause irritation to the branching nerves that come off the spinal cord. Results are rubbing, pinching, severing, and twisting of the nerves and this results in pain as well as numbness, weakness, and decreased mobility and other painful and often debilitation symptoms of spinal stenosis. Living life with spinal stenosis can be difficult but having a better understanding of the condition can help it seem less terrifying.
What age group is most susceptible?
Bone loss and the development of growths such as bone spurs or arthritis are the most common causes for spinal stenosis and are commonly seen in older adults. The condition, however, can be seen in all age groups with young and old being susceptible to some extent. Symptoms of spinal stenosis can vary from person to person and are largely based on where the narrowing occurs, how bad it is, and what the individual’s lifestyle is like. One way to make living life with spinal stenosis easier is to get routine chiropractic care- whether you are old or young and whether you are newly diagnosed or have been living with it for years.
What are some of the most common symptoms of spinal stenosis?
Spinal stenosis cause pain that is often described as searing at the area of the spine where the nerves are impacted, and then the pain can radiate down past that point and can cause pain, weakness, numbness, tingling, loss of mobility, muscle weakness, and other symptoms in the arms, hands, legs, and feet.
What are some of the less common symptoms of spinal stenosis?
This condition can bring about other associated issues outside of the spine and direct connections. It can lead to headaches, muscles spasms, lack of hand and foot control, and issues with other body systems such as mood swings, depression or anxiety, high blood pressure, allergies, and more! Symptoms of spinal stenosis affect more than just the spine and it is amazing for many new patients when they begin to see how living life with spinal stenosis means rethinking their overall health and care routines. This is why starting with good chiropractic are and continuing with it throughout your care routine is so important for your overall health!
What brings on the pain of spinal stenosis?
When the spinal cord and the branching nerves are impacted by a narrowing of the vertebra passage it can make every day activates painful. Things like standing too long, improper posture when sitting, sleeping in a bad position, bending incorrectly, carrying too much weight, sneezing or coughing hard, walking for too long, and sometimes even rolling over in bed or stretching can bring on a flare-up of painful symptoms. With severe cases of spinal stenosis, small little things can easily shift the spine just enough to pinch something.
If you or someone you know lives with this condition then you know all about the symptoms of spinal stenosis. What you are likely looking for is help learning the ins and outs of living life with spinal stenosis and how to live life without letting the pain control your every waking moment. Here at Tree of Life, we believe in treating the entire patient and our unique approach to back and spinal care takes the whole person into account. So give us a call today and set up your consolation appointment and let us show you how we can help give you back part of your life and help you live a happier and healthier life in spite of your spinal stenosis!