Most cases of stenosis occur in the lower back, resulting ‘lumber stenosis.’ Stenosis occurs when the openings for the nerves of the spine become blocked or narrowed, resulting in impingement of the nerves.

The most common cause of stenosis is the wear and tear of aging. Most people that suffer from stenosis are in their 50s or older. Stenosis can also be inherited at birth. In rare cases, stenosis can be caused by synovial cysts that develop as a result of facet joint degeneration in the lumbar spine.

Common symptoms of stenosis:

• Burning, tingling, or shooting pain in the buttock or extremities
• relief from pain when bending forward or sitting (thereby relieving pressure)
• weakness
• numbness

Symptoms of vertical stenosis with myelopathy (when stonesis affects long tracts of nerves in the spinal cord)

• Heavy feeling in the legs
• Arm pain
• Inability to walk at a quickened pace
• Loss of motor skills
• Shooting arm and leg pain )particularly when bending the head forward)

Rest, restricted activity, and over the counter medication can provide temporary pain relief from symptoms of stenosis. After a thorough chiropractic visit, you will be provided with the recommended nonsurgical and nondedicated options for relief.