Your spine changes as you age because of wear-and-tear, which can lead to spinal stenosis. At Oklahoma Pain Physicians in Oklahoma City, Purcell, and Norman, Oklahoma, Rafael Justiz, MD, and Alina Justiz, MD, diagnose spinal stenosis and offer expert treatment to relieve your pain and restore your quality of life. Call Oklahoma Pain Physicians or request an appointment online today for spinal stenosis treatment.

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Spinal Stenosis Q & A

What is spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is a condition that occurs when the space within your spine narrows. Your spinal column is compact, and any narrowing increases your risk of nerve compression. The condition affects the neck (cervical) and lower (lumbar) spine.

In most cases, everyday wear-and-tear on your spine and osteoarthritis cause spinal stenosis. For example, it’s common to develop bone spurs when you have arthritis. Those spurs can reduce the available space in your spine.

Other causes of spinal stenosis include herniated discs, tumors, and thickened ligaments. You might also develop spinal stenosis after a spinal injury.

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What are the symptoms of spinal stenosis?

In addition to pain, spinal stenosis can also cause nerve compression, which leads to a variety of symptoms throughout your body. For example, you could experience weakness or numbness in your feet, legs, hands, or arms.

Spinal stenosis can also cause balance problems and trouble walking. You might lose your ability to grasp small objects. In rare cases, spinal stenosis can trigger paralysis or incontinence.

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How is spinal stenosis diagnosed?

The team at Oklahoma Pain Physicians offers comprehensive exams to determine if spinal stenosis is the cause of your pain and other symptoms.

During your exam, they review your medical history and symptoms. Your doctor also asks about your lifestyle and any recent back injuries. In addition to your consultation, your physician might order X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to confirm narrowing in your spine.

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How is spinal stenosis treated?

Treatment for spinal stenosis depends on the condition causing it and the severity of your symptoms. For example, your doctor might recommend medication to reduce inflammation in your spine. Alternatively, you might benefit from physical therapy, spinal injections, or decompression procedures. In some cases, surgery to repair or remove a herniated disc — like a laminectomy or laminoplasty — can relieve your symptoms. Your physician might also recommend nerve blocks or spinal cord stimulation to stop the painful nerve signals.

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If you have spinal pain or symptoms of nerve compression in your arms or legs, call Oklahoma

Pain Physicians today and get expert, customized treatment.

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