What is spinal stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the open spaces within the spinal column. Most often, the tightening effect results from age-related degenerative changes that take place gradually over time. For instance, a bulging or herniated disc, inflamed facet joint, thickened ligament or bone spur can encroach the already limited space within the spinal canal. While the narrowing itself is not necessarily problematic, it can potentially lead to discomfort if the spinal cord or a nearby nerve root becomes squeezed or compressed as a result.
What are the symptoms of spinal stenosis?
If spinal stenosis does not involve nerve compression, it may not produce any symptoms. In fact, some people who have the condition remain completely unaware of it. On the other hand, a compressed spinal nerve can produce various forms of discomfort, including localized and radiating pain, tingling sensations, numbness, muscle weakness and difficulty walking. The nature and severity of the symptoms will generally depend on the location of – and amount of pressure being exerted on – the affected nerve. In very severe cases, a rare but serious complication known as cauda equina syndrome may develop. This condition, which can cause bladder or bowel incontinence, requires emergency medical attention to prevent lasting damage.
How is spinal stenosis treated?
Mild-to-moderate spinal stenosis symptoms can often be treated effectively with pain-relieving medications, physical therapy or steroid injections. However, to address debilitating symptoms that do not respond sufficiently to conservative treatment, surgery may be recommended to create additional space for compressed spinal nerves.
Surgical decompression procedures that may be performed to treat spinal stenosis include a laminectomy, which involves the removal of the entire back part (lamina) of a vertebra, and a laminotomy, which involves the removal of a portion of a lamina. In some cases, a spinal fusion procedure may be recommended to strengthen and stabilize the spinal column by encouraging two adjacent vertebrae to grow together into a single, solid piece of bone.
If you are experiencing spinal stenosis symptoms, you can confidently entrust your care to the spine specialists at Advanced Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine of Houston. We offer comprehensive, state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment services at three convenient locations in the Houston, Texas, area.
For more information about spinal stenosis, contact Advanced Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine of Houston, TX, today.
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1Professional Building II At North Cypress Medical Center
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2North Cypress Professional Building At Lakewood Crossing
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3North Cypress Professional Building At Towne Lake
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4Advanced Orthopaedics Memorial
What Our Patients Are Saying
So I was going to get on here and brag about what a great surgeon Dr. Cubbage is. But Cubbage is only 3/4 of the picture. He’ll fix you, but Karen is the one that will care for you and heal you! Facts are looks like dozens of people have already beat me to all of the brag I want to dish to these 2 people. I will leave it with one thing – Dr. Cubbage and Karen gave me my life back! Do I need to say more?
So I was going to get on here and brag about what a great surgeon Dr. Cubbage is. But Cubbage is only 3/4 of the picture. He’ll fix you, but Karen is the one that will care for you and heal you! Facts are looks like dozens of people have already beat me to all of the brag I want to dish to these 2 people. I will leave it with one thing – Dr. Cubbage and Karen gave me my life back! Do I need to say more?
Dr. Bacon is fantastic. While she may not always be the most personable, she is extremely knowledgeable. My ankle has been bothering me for years and other doctors have dismissed me. She took the time to do a thorough exam and understand my body mechanics to get to a diagnosis
I just think that this is the best health care facility to this day. I truly appreciate all
The PT, so far they are considerit. It’s excellent
and it just make me do more.
Thank you
This office did everything they could to get me in timely after a very bad sprain on my ankle. I saw nurse practitioner Stuart who is very thorough and x-rays and explaining everything to me. I would definitely recommend advanced orthopaedics for anyone With something broken or sprained
I never review places or services on Facebook, but I could not let others know how blessed I was to have Dr. Cubbage as my surgeon. He and his lovely staff, including awesome Karen, have truly taken care of during this difficult time. I am thrilled to say that I’m quickly on the mend and I’ll be back in the classroom very soon! Love this practice!!
I was in pain for a couple of months and went to see Dr. Cubbage. He knew right away by the way my posture what the issue was. He had me scheduled in and he along with his staff were awesome. After my surgery, I felt 100 % better. I had a few follow up visits and he along with his staff were genuinely attentive to my concerns and needs. I was also not in his network and his staff helped me out with that as well. I highly recommend him for people that have back or neck issues.
Dr. Cubbage & Staff replaced a disc that had been destroyed between my 4th and 5th vertebra. This is my 4th month since the surgery in January of 2018. I was very impressed with their dedication and professional approach to helping me live a more productive life. I am a 70 year old wife, mother and grandmother. Feel very blessed. Sincerely!
Excellent experience. The doctor, staff, office services and hospital care were outstanding before, during and after the procedure. Thank you – Heathgrades, Dr. Cubbage review