Spinal stenosis can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort for those who suffer from it. It occurs when the spaces within the spine narrow and put pressure on the nerves that run through it. This can lead to back pain, leg pain and other symptoms. While the exact cause of spinal stenosis is not always clear there are several factors that can contribute to its development. In this blog post, we will explore the different causes of spinal stenosis and how physiotherapy and chiropractic care can help.
Age: One of the most common causes of spinal stenosis is simply getting older. As we age the ligaments that hold the discs in our spine together can thicken and harden which can compress the nerves in the spinal cord. Additionally, the discs themselves can degenerate over time putting pressure on the spinal cord and causing pain.
Injury: Spinal stenosis can also be triggered by a trauma, such as a car accident or a fall. Injuries to the spine can cause the vertebrae to shift or even fracture, which can narrow the spinal canal and put pressure on the nerves. This can cause pain, numbness, and even paralysis in severe cases.
Arthritis: Arthritis is another common cause of spinal stenosis. Osteoarthritis, in particular, can cause the cartilage between your joints to wear down, leading to bone spurs that put pressure on the spinal cord. This can cause significant pain, especially in the lower back.
Herniated discs: When a disc in your spine ruptures or bulges out of place, it can put pressure on the nerves in the spinal cord. This can cause pain, numbness, and tingling sensations in the back and legs. Herniated discs are often caused by injury or wear and tear, and they can be a particularly difficult condition to treat.
Spinal tumors: Rarely, in serious spinal stenosis it can be caused by a tumor growing within the spinal canal. These tumors can grow from the spinal cord itself or from the surrounding tissue, and they can cause severe pain and discomfort. Treating spinal tumors often requires a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Overall, spinal stenosis can be caused by a variety of factors, including age, injury, arthritis, herniated discs, and spinal tumors. If you are experiencing back pain or discomfort, it’s important to talk to a qualified healthcare professional to determine the cause of your symptoms. Whether you choose physiotherapy or chiropractic care, both can help alleviate the pain associated with spinal stenosis and improve your quality of life. With the right treatment plan, you can regain your mobility and live a pain-free life.
