What is the difference between lumbar stenosis and spinal stenosis?
What is the difference between lumbar stenosis and spinal stenosis?
The two types of spinal stenosis are lumbar stenosis and cervical stenosis. Lumbar spinal stenosis is the more common of the two, but cervical spinal stenosis is often more dangerous since it involves compression of the spinal cord.
What causes spinal stenosis to flare up?
A tightened space can cause the spinal cord or nerves to become irritated, compressed or pinched, which can lead to back pain and sciatica. Spinal stenosis usually develops slowly over time. It is most commonly caused by osteoarthritis or “wear-and-tear” changes that naturally occur in your spine as you age.
What does pain from spinal stenosis feel like?
Cervical spinal stenosis may cause mild to moderate burning or shock-like pain in the neck, shoulder, and/or arms. Abnormal sensations, such as tingling, crawling, and/or numbness may be felt in both hands. The arms and hands may feel weak.
What are the symptoms of a lumbar strain?
Excruciating pain in the back
Can lumbar spinal stenosis be cured?
While the spinal stenosis exercises are not a cure, it is important for patients to remain active as tolerated and not become additionally debilitated from inactivity. See Exercises for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis. The treating physician may prescribe a supervised physical therapy program.
What happens if spinal stenosis goes untreated?
Even with treatment, the signs and symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis may come back. If left untreated, you may develop further problems. The pain may become worse, which may affect your daily activities. You may not be able to control when you urinate or have a bowel movement.
What is the recovery time for back surgery on L4 and L5?
The recovery time for surgery involving the L4 and L5 vertebrae varies depending on the procedure, states Mayo Clinic. For laminectomy procedures, recovery can take as little as a few weeks. In cases requiring spinal fusion, recovery can take as long as six months.
