Spinal Canal Stenosis

The spinal canal is one of the essential components of the human body, playing a vital role in transmitting nerve signals and information between organs. However, the spinal canal may encounter issues such as spinal canal stenosis, which can lead to symptoms like lower back pain, numbness, and tingling. Fortunately, with the advancement of therapeutic techniques, it is now possible to treat and expand spinal canal stenosis without surgery. At Dr. Mohamed Koura's center, a specialist in this field, the latest therapeutic technologies derived from his continuous participation in international conferences are applied.

This article will explain the concept of spinal canal stenosis, its symptoms, causes, complications, treatment methods, and the superiority of non-surgical treatment.

What Is Spinal Canal Stenosis?

It is a narrowing in one or more spaces within the spinal canal, representing the tunnel that passes through each vertebra in the spine. This narrowing can compress the spinal cord and the nerves branching out from it, causing irritation or pressure. Common symptoms include back pain and conditions like sciatica.

Symptoms of Spinal Canal Stenosis

Symptoms vary based on the severity and location of the compression and may include:

• Lower back pain radiating to the buttocks and legs, possibly extending to the feet.
• Numbness or tingling in the buttocks, legs, or feet.
• Weakness in the arms or legs.
• Increased pain when standing for long periods or walking downhill.
• Pain episodes waking the patient at night, resembling electric shocks.
• Neurogenic claudication, a feeling of heaviness and cramping in the legs, often relieved by sitting or leaning forward.

Causes of Spinal Canal Stenosis

• Genetic Changes: Sometimes leading to bone or tendon enlargement, compressing the spinal canal.
• Spondylolisthesis: A vertebral slip causing pressure on the canal from all directions.
• Osteoarthritis: Resulting in bony growths that compress the canal.
• Herniated Discs: Causing nerve compression from the front.
• Thickened Ligaments: Pressuring the canal from the back.

Complications of Spinal Canal Stenosis

Neglecting treatment can lead to severe complications, including:

• Loss of bladder control (urinary incontinence).
• Neurological sexual dysfunction, such as erectile dysfunction.
• In rare cases, partial or complete paralysis of the legs.

Treatment Methods for Spinal Canal Stenosis

1. Medications

Doctors may prescribe medications to relieve pain and inflammation in mild to moderate cases.

2. Physical Therapy

Involves a customized exercise program to improve balance, flexibility, and strengthen the back and abdominal muscles. It must be supervised by a specialist.

3. Surgery

Reserved for advanced cases, but it has several drawbacks:

• Prolonged bed rest post-surgery.
• Risk of wound infection.
• Requires physiotherapy to strengthen back muscles post-surgery.

Non-Surgical Treatment for Spinal Canal Stenosis

Treating spinal canal stenosis without surgery can significantly improve the condition without major side effects associated with medications or surgery. The treatment involves:

• Using specialized tools to expand the spinal canal through a small skin incision.
• Injecting a contrast dye into the spinal canal to accurately visualize its edges and branches.
• Removing obstructions and relieving pressure on the canal and its nourishing arteries.

Patients can typically leave the hospital on the same day, resume normal activities quickly, and return to their daily routine the following day.

Can Spinal Canal Stenosis Be Prevented?

You can reduce the risk of spinal canal stenosis by:

• Eating a healthy diet rich in calcium.
• Maintaining a healthy weight.
• Quitting smoking to avoid arterial damage and back pain.
• Practicing proper sitting posture.
• Regular exercise to improve muscle strength, especially in the back.

In conclusion, after outlining the complications, symptoms, and treatment methods for spinal canal stenosis, there’s no need to worry. At Dr. Mohamed Koura’s center, we provide a non-surgical solution to chronic pain issues. To make the right treatment decision, it is best to visit the center for quick diagnosis and tailored treatment to eliminate spinal canal stenosis and its associated pain.