Spinal stenosis is a general term, which refers to narrowing in the spinal canal. This can occur in the neck (cervical stenosis), low back (lumbar stenosis), or mid-back (thoracic stenosis). This narrowing can occur around the spinal cord (central stenosis) or in the holes in the side of the spine where the nerves exit (neuroforaminal stenosis). Spinal stenosis is typically caused by long-term, repetitive wear on the spine. This leads to bulging discs, herniated discs, and arthritis of the facet joints, which encroach on the spinal cord and/or spinal nerves. This is the cause of the pain in the neck and/or arms (cervical stenosis) or low back and/or legs (lumbar stenosis).
Management of spinal stenosis depends on the etiology of the pain. Our doctors will work with you to first diagnose the source of the pain and then form a comprehensive treatment plan addressing all aspects of your low back pain. Possible treatments range from non-invasive therapy such as physical therapy and medication to minimally invasive options such as epidural steroid injections. These epidural steroid injections provide significant reduction in inflammation and pain. They also help localize and confirm the source of the pain, providing diagnostic information and allowing the creation of a more well-defined and accurate long-term plan of treatment. If a patient has failed conservative, non-surgical options, it is reasonable to consider surgical intervention. We take great care to individualize your treatment so that you are given the tools necessary to get the relief you are looking for.
At Willis Knighton Spine & Pain Specialists, our goal is to reduce your pain caused by spinal stenosis and improve your function so that you experience an increase in your quality of life. Call our office to schedule an appointment in either our Bossier City or Shreveport locations.
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