‘Stenosis’ means narrowing – usually of the spinal canal or neural foramina of the spine.
The narrowing is related to the gradual aging process and can be caused by many things – osteophytes (bony growths), thickening and calcification of ligaments and facet joints, and disc degeneration. It is more commonly seen in females, usually older than 50 years.
Background
If pain/disability is severe, then your Physio can refer for cortisone injections or possible surgical intervention.
Symptoms
- Leg pain (sciatica)
- Leg pain with walking (claudication).
- Tingling, weakness or numbness that radiates from the lower back into the buttocks and legs.
Care
- Education on comfortable position/exercises (leaning on counter, hugging knees to chest, lying with pillow under knees), and what to avoid (prolonged standing or walking).
- Advice on what exercise is beneficial – usually unloaded pool exercises/walking, exercise bike or Clinical Pilates.
- Correction of posture – especially is over-lordotic lower back (over-arched).
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