Lumbar stenosis

Lumbar stenosis occurs when the spinal canal narrows and puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. The lower back area below the waist is the lumbar area of the back. The spine is made up of small stacked bones called vertebrae. These bones have a canal in the middle that holds and protects the spinal cord and nerve roots. Nerves exit between the vertebrae and branch out to the body, including the arms and legs. The vertebrae are arranged in three natural curves that are necessary to support the body. Strong, flexible muscles help maintain these curves.

There are cushions called discs between each of the bones of the spine. These cushions or discs act as shock absorbers. Each disc has a spongy center and a tough outer ring. Discs have water in them. As people age, the discs lose some of the water, shrink, and become less flexible. The ligaments that hold the discs in place become weak.

The narrow spinal canal can be present at birth and worsen with age. More often, the narrowing is caused by arthritis, occurring as people age. As people age, stress and pressure begin to wear out parts of the spine.

The spaces in the spine can narrow without any symptoms. If there is pressure on the spinal cord, or nerves, symptoms can start slowly. Often there may be numbness, weakness, cramping or pain in the legs. The symptoms may occur when walking, but get better when the person sits. If the stenosis is severe it may cause loss of bowel and bladder control or may cause foot problems.

It is important to know the cause of any back pain. The healthcare provider will usually order X-rays and a MRI or a CT scan.

The provider may suggest rest and pain medicines such as acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin or ibuprofen for the pain. Aspirin or medicines that have aspirin in them should not be given to anyone younger than 18 years of age. Taking aspirin is a risk for a serious illness called Reye's syndrome. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should be taken with food or milk to prevent stomach upset. NSAIDs should be avoided by anyone who has been diagnosed with asthma, ulcer disease, or a bleeding disorder. Taking NSAIDs increases the risk of bleeding with trauma, dental work, surgery, or if taking blood thinners (anticoagulants) when taken regularly for more than a week.

Surgery may be suggested if there is numbness and weakness in the legs or if rest and pain medicines do not help. Surgery is done to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. The most common surgery is decompression laminectomy. Sometimes a spinal fusion will also be done. If a spinal fusion is done, special instrumentation may be put in the spine to help keep it stable. The pain usually goes away after the surgery.

Spinal stenosis may not be preventable. However, exercise, and good posture may postpone the effects of arthritis. Learning the right way to lift can prevent injuries. Taking good care of the back with exercise and good posture helps a person stay active.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File BONE3436.RF2 VRS# 7623 Data Version 7.0 Copyright 1999, 2002-2003 McKesson Health Solutions LLC. All rights reserved.