Lumbar Spinal Stenosis. Big words for an unbelievably common problem. Stenosis means “narrowing.” Lumbar spinal stenosis is a condition affecting the lower back where the spinal canal or one or more of the vertebral foramina becomes narrowed. There are several causes of spinal stenosis. Each can result in pain, weakness, and numbness in the lower extremities.
The lumbar area is the lower back, specifically made up of five vertebrae (bones). These bones create a canal that surrounds and protects the spinal cord. Nerves from spinal cord exit this canal through small openings in the vertebrae called foramina. These nerves control the sensations and movement in the buttocks, hips, legs, feet and toes. In the case of spinal stenosis, the spinal canal or the vertebral foramina narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord and the nerves.
According to the Mayo Clinic, some people are born with a small spinal canal, but most spinal stenosis occurs when something happens to reduce the amount of space the spinal cord or the nerves have available. It is most commonly diagnosed in people over the age of 50. Some causes are:
Symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis are typically pain or cramping in the legs and buttocks, especially after walking or standing. Often sufferers have numbness or weakness of the lower extremities. The pain is usually relieved by sitting down or even bending over. The symptoms may mimic other disease states such as sciatica, diabetic neuropathy, or peripheral vascular disease. The symptoms often worsen over time and can even lead to problems with bowel and bladder control. It is very important if you have persistent pain, numbness, or weakness in your back, legs, or arms to visit your doctor to find out the cause and seek treatment.
How is lumbar spinal stenosis diagnosed?
Your physical therapist will diagnose the disease by first discussing the symptoms and medical history, including how long the symptoms have been present and when they are better or worse. Next is the physical exam including an assessment of your range of motion and strength.
In most cases, patients with lower back pain and sciatica due to spinal stenosis can recover without medications, injections, or surgery. This is where a thorough evaluation from a physical therapist (PT) trained in hands-on manual therapy is crucial. A PT will be able to determine specifically which muscles and joints in your spine need to be worked specifically with the skilled use of his/her hands.
Another thing we see is that it’s common for people who have spinal stenosis to limit their activities which leads to weakness and often more pain. Physical therapy can help to strengthen muscles and improve endurance, develop and maintain flexibility of the spine and it can help improve balance that may have been lost while suffering with pain and discomfort. The use of cold laser therapy and lumbar traction can greatly reduce symptoms and improve function.
In most cases, patients need not worsen to the point where they would need surgery. Although some less invasive procedures have been developed in recent years, there are always risks with any surgery so your doctor will discuss the options and weigh the risks and benefits with you to allow you to make an informed decision.
Unfortunately, because it is a degenerative disease, lumbar spinal stenosis cannot be prevented. It is often just a normal part of the aging process, but exercising and physical therapy can often minimize the symptoms and limit the progression of the disease. Outlook for recovery depends on the severity and duration of symptoms when it is first diagnosed as well as response to conservative treatments.
Home treatments include applying hot or cold packs, performing prescribed exercises, maintaining a healthy weight, and using a cane or walker when necessary to reduce the stress applied to the low back or to provide relief from pain.
Not convinced your pain is due to stenosis?
Check out our other low back pain articles:
Battle of the Disc Bulge
Sacroiliac Joint
We also welcome you to check out our "Freedom from Low Back Pain and Sciatica Workshop", Saturday, July 17th from 10:00 am - 11:30 am. Register online or call our office to reserve your spot!
