At Austin Neurosurgeons, we strive to provide exceptional patient care and treatment options for patients who are suffering from spinal disorders including lumbar stenosis, a very common spinal condition.
What is Lumbar Stenosis?
There are five vertebrae within the lower back. They are located in the lower part of the spine between the ribs of the pelvis. Lumbar stenosis is caused when the spinal canal begins to narrow, and compresses the nerves that travel through the back and into the legs. This can be caused by bulging disks, bone spurs, tumors, or injury. This condition can affect younger patients. However, it most often affects individuals who are 60 or older. The narrowing of the spinal canal is typically a slow process that takes place over many years or decades.
Symptoms
Some people may never develop symptoms and instead learn of their condition by accident through imaging of the lumbar spine. Symptoms usually develop slowly over time and can include :
- Pain
- Weakness
- Numbness in legs
- Cramping in legs
- Radiating pain into thighs
- Sciatica
- Motor dysfunction
- Bladder or Bowel dysfunction
- Difficulty with Balance
Diagnosis
At Austin Neurosurgeons, our professionals perform comprehensive diagnostic testing for the accurate diagnosis of lumbar stenosis. A diagnosis is made based on history, symptoms, physical examination, and test results. These tests may include:
- X-ray: captures the inner structures of the body including the bones, alignment of the spine, and joints.
- CT scan or CAT scan: Shows the shape and size of the spinal canal, as well as the structures surrounding it.
- MRI: Shows the spinal cord, nerve roots, and surrounding structures
- CT Myelogram: Shows the flow of spinal fluid and nerve roots, as well as the bony structures surrounding them
Our Approach
At Austin Neurosurgeons we take a multifaceted approach for treating spinal disorders. Based on your condition and unique needs, our professionals will develop the best possible route for treatment tailored to you. We work with our patients to maximize conservative treatment options, while possessing the ability to provide surgical options when warranted.
Treatment Options
Our providers at Austin Neurosurgeons may suggest nonsurgical treatments for your symptoms. Some patients do very well with conservative options including: physical therapy, steroid injections, pain management, and more.
If your symptoms are significant enough and conservative measures do not provide relief, our providers may recommend surgery to alleviate the pressure on your nerves. Some common surgical procedures to treat lumbar stenosis include:
- Laminectomy
- Laminotomy/Foraminotomy
- Discectomy
Contact Us
Don’t live in pain and discomfort from lumbar stenosis any longer. Reach out to the professionals here at Austin Neurosurgeons located in Austin, TX to learn more about our range of comprehensive treatments. Contact us and schedule your consultation for improved well-being today!