Lumbar spinal stenosis develops when the spinal canal in the lower back becomes narrowed, which can place pressure on the nerves that pass through this region. This condition may arise from degenerative changes to the spine, such as thickened ligaments, bone spurs, or bulging discs, and sometimes other causes like congenital factors or injury. Individuals with spinal stenosis may experience symptoms that affect daily life, with severity and presentation varying from person to person.
What Is Lumbar Spinal Stenosis?
The lumbar spine consists of vertebrae in the lower back. The spinal canal within this region houses nerves that travel to the lower body. Lumbar spinal stenosis develops when the spinal canal narrows and causes compression of these nerves.
Degenerative changes are a common cause of narrowing in the lumbar spinal canal. Ligaments may thicken, and intervertebral discs can bulge or herniate, all of which can reduce the available space for nerves in the lower back. Other causes of spinal stenosis include being born with a narrow spinal canal and certain bone conditions. The narrowing process generally develops over time, and symptoms may appear when nerve compression becomes more pronounced.
What Are the Symptoms?
The symptoms of spinal stenosis in the lumbar spine can include back pain that may radiate into the legs. Relief often occurs when sitting down or leaning forward. Symptoms can progress gradually and show periods of both increased and decreased discomfort. These symptoms can resemble those of other conditions, so healthcare professionals may use physical evaluations and imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans to help determine the diagnosis. The specific combination of symptoms and examination findings helps guide next steps in care.
How Is It Treated?
Treatment for lumbar spinal stenosis may include nonsurgical options such as physical therapy, medications for discomfort, and epidural steroid injections to decrease inflammation around compressed nerves. Medications to manage discomfort can include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and other types directed by a physician. These are used to address pain and inflammation associated with spinal stenosis.
Epidural steroid injections are a nonsurgical treatment option. This procedure involves delivering a corticosteroid into the epidural space to decrease inflammation around compressed nerves. Relief from these injections may be temporary and can help some individuals engage more fully in physical therapy. Adjusting daily activities to limit prolonged standing or walking can also assist in managing symptoms.
Surgical procedures for spinal stenosis in the lumbar region may involve a decompressive laminectomy. This is when a part of the vertebra is removed to relieve pressure on the affected nerves. Surgery may be recommended if nonsurgical treatments do not reduce symptoms.
Seek Pain Management Services
A pain management specialist can assess the specific symptoms and underlying causes of lumbar spinal stenosis to recommend a tailored treatment plan. Collaborating closely with healthcare providers allows individuals to explore a range of strategies, fostering greater comfort as they manage their spinal health. Engaging with experienced pain management providers supports individuals in finding relief and maintaining function in daily activities.
