Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is defined as narrowing (stenosis) of the spinal canal that occurs in the cervical (neck), thoracic (middle of upper back), and lumbar (low back) regions of the spine. When narrowing occurs it may cause a restriction of the spinal cord and nerves of the spinal canal, resulting in a neurological deficit. The most common symptoms include pain, numbness, paresthesia (abnormal tingling and prickling sensation), and loss of motor control.
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Spinal stenosis occurs most commonly in the cervical and lumbar spinal regions. Cervical and lumbar spinal stenosis are most commonly diagnosed because of the mobility of turning and bending that exists in these regions of the spine. Therefore, these regions are most prone to degeneration due to wear and tear. The thoracic spine’s main function is to provide support and stabilization. When the spinal canal narrows, the spinal cord and exiting nerves are more likely to be compressed with constant bending and moving of the vertebrae.
