Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the space in the spine that may press on a nerve or the spinal cord, causing symptoms that affect quality of life. At Silver Spine & Neurological Center — Interventional Pain Management & Spine Surgery in Sherman, Greenville, and McKinney, Texas, minimally invasive and complex spine neurosurgeon M. Viktor Silver, MD, FACS, FRCS, provides comprehensive care for spinal stenosis, including same-day surgical procedures that improve pain and mobility. Call the office today or schedule a stenosis consultation online.

What is stenosis?

Stenosis means the narrowing of a body passage. Spinal stenosis is a common cause of neck and back pain that occurs when there’s a narrowing of the spinal column, limiting space for the spinal cord and spinal nerves. 

Though some are born with spinal stenosis, most people develop the condition as they get older due to age-related changes that affect the structure of the spine. The narrowing may affect any part of the spine but most often occurs in the lumbar or cervical spine. 

The narrowing of the spine may put pressure on the spinal cord or the nerves, causing various pain sensations. 

When should I worry about my stenosis?

It’s possible to have spinal stenosis and no problems or symptoms. However, spinal stenosis is a progressive condition, and once the pain starts, you can expect it to worsen over time. 

You should worry about your spinal stenosis when it causes symptoms such as:

• Ongoing neck or back pain
• Numbness in the arms or legs
• Pain that radiates into the arms or legs
• Difficulty walking
• Loss of control over your bowel or bladder

Dr. Silver is an experienced minimally invasive and complex spine neurosurgeon specializing in treating spinal stenosis. He conducts a thorough exam when you come in with concerns about back or neck pain to accurately diagnose the cause of your symptoms. 

What treatments can improve stenosis?

Treatment for spinal stenosis focuses on symptom management. Initially, Dr. Silver takes a conservative approach, recommending treatments like physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and chiropractic care.

If your symptoms worsen or no longer respond to medical treatments, Dr. Silver may recommend interventional pain management, such as epidural injections or nerve blocks. If your symptoms are severe, Dr. Silver may recommend spine surgery such as: 

Laminectomy

During a laminectomy, Dr. Silver removes the bone, bone spurs, and ligaments in the spine compressing the nerves.

Spinal fusion

For a spinal fusion, Dr. Silver fuses two or more vertebral bones together to stop painful movements.

Many of Dr. Silver’s patients walk better and have less pain after surgery. He performs most procedures using minimally invasive techniques that are done in the outpatient setting, so you go home the same day.

For help managing your stenosis, call Silver Spine & Neurological Center — Interventional Pain Management & Spine Surgery today or click the online scheduling tool.