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Advanced Medical Rehabilitation Group |
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Gary DiBlasio, M.D., P.A. |
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701 Northlake Boulevard
North Palm Beach, FL 33408
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Suite
208 |
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1807 South Kanner Hwy,
Stuart,
FL 34994 |
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Voice: (561) 863-2828 ● Fax:
(561) 863-2914 |
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Dedicated to the
state-of-the-art non-invasive medical treatment of spine and pain disorders. |
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Back aches and pains are a health
concern for millions of people. Nearly 28 million Americans saw their
doctors because of back and low back pain in 2001. There may be many
reasons for backaches and pains. One cause could be spinal stenosis.
Stenosis means narrowing. In
spinal stenosis, the spinal canal, which contains and protects the
spinal cord and nerve roots, narrows and pinches the spinal cord and
nerves. The result is low back pain as well as pain in the legs. Stenosis may pinch the nerves that control muscle power and sensation in
the legs.
Causes of spinal stenosis: There are many potential causes
for spinal stenosis, including:
- Aging. As you get older, the
ligaments (tough connective tissues between the bones in the spine)
can thicken. Spurs (small growths) may develop on the bones and into
the spinal canal. The cushioning disks between the vertebrae may begin
to deteriorate. The facet joints (flat surfaces on each vertebra that
form the spinal column) also may begin to break down.
- Heredity. If the spinal canal
is too small at birth, symptoms may show up in a relatively young
person.
- Changes in blood flow to the
lumbar spine.
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Symptoms of spinal stenosis
- Pain and difficulty when
walking, aggravated by activity.
- Numbness, tingling, hot or cold
feelings, weakness or a heavy and tired feeling in the legs.
- Clumsiness, frequent falling,
or a foot-slapping gait.
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Source:
AAOS Research Dept. patient visits for selected conditions, June 2001
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