Stenosis

What is Canal Stenosis?  Well, when degeneration of the spine known as osteoarthritis or OA occurs it may cause narrowing of the spinal canal and form canal stenosis.  The degeneration affects the intervertebral discs as well as the facet joints of the spine.  It is important to remember that not all pain felt down the buttocks and/or leg is caused from canal stenosis; many other conditions may cause these symptoms.  A detailed case history, physical exam, x-rays, or special imaging such as a MRI or CT scan will further diagnose whether the symptoms are due to canal stenosis or a related condition.  Wear and tear of the intervertebral disc may cause bulging of that disc into the spinal canal, which may also narrow it and cause symptoms.  This may or may not be seen in the elderly individual, although canal stenosis is more common in this age group.  A disc bulge, or disc herniation, is more common in the 30-something age group since the discs are well hydrated and more prone to herniation or rupture.  As we age, our discs begin to lose water and they begin to shrink in size, thus making them less susceptible to hernation.  This is also a reason for a reduction of overall height. 

Treatment

If the patient is exhibiting severe symptoms such as loss of bladder or bowel control, severe muscle weakness, or complete paralysis, it is indicative of nerve damage and must be corrected with surgical intervention.  For less complicated cases, chiropractic care is favored in the treatment of individuals suffering from canal stenosis.  Techniques like the Spinal Decompression Table and the Cox Flexion/Distraction technique have been proven to reduce the nerve pressure on the spinal canal and open up the facet joints bringing nourished blood and nutrients into the canal while replenishing the surrounding tissues.  These techniques promote cellular healing, reduce pain and inflammation, and restore motion to the spine.