Cervical Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal causing compression of the spinal cord and nerves. It most commonly causes back and neck pain, headaches and leg fatigue or pain. The most common causes of spinal stenosis are arthritis of the spine, disc herniations, and abnormal alignment of the spine. The Revive Spine and Pain Care team have extensive experience accurately determining the underlying cause and help patients overcome their pain using the most cutting-edge treatments available. Call the office to learn more or use the convenient online booking feature to schedule a consultation today.

Your spinal canal is formed by rings of bone located at the back of each vertebrae. The vertebrae are stacked on top of each other and the rings form a canal for the cord to traverse its length from the base of the skull to the low back. This canal protects the nerves in your spinal cord. As the spinal cord travels through the canal, nerves enter and exit the canal through openings in your vertebral bones. Spinal stenosis occurs when your spinal canal is narrowed. Several conditions cause spinal stenosis, including:‍

⦁ Herniated Disc

⦁ Facet Joint Arthritis

⦁ Degenerative Disc Disease

⦁ Thickened Ligaments

⦁ Bone Spurs

⦁ Slipped Vertebrae (Spondylolithesis)

⦁ Pain, weakness, numbness, and/or tingling in your neck and/or arms

⦁ Pain and arm fatigue worsens with using your hand and arms

⦁ Although rare, a severe case of spinal stenosis can cause bladder and bowel incontinence and extreme leg weakness. These are signs of a serious nerve problem, called Cauda Equina, that needs immediate medical attention.

Once your correct diagnosis is established, The Revive Spine and Pain team will create a customized plan for you. If the source of pain is determined to be from within the neck arthritis, treatment may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), physical therapy, and temporarily modifying your activities. Cervical epidural steroid injections may be offered if you have persistent pain. If there is progressive numbness or weakness, then we can help coordinate care with a spine surgeon.