Spinal stenosis is an extremely aggravating and painful condition that is the No. 1 reason people over the age of 60 have spine surgery. Whether you have this condition due to wear and tear over the years or for some other reason – and you’re tired of having to curtail the activities you love because they’ve become too painful – the time may have come to have a discussion with an orthopedic surgeon.
Why it Happens
Spinal stenosis usually happens due to changes to the spine that take place over the years. Pain, numbness, weakness and cramping are just some of the symptoms along with a feeling that your legs are being stuck with hundreds of pins and needles. When you walk the symptoms get worse, and when you rest they tend to get better.
The Big Question
For many patients, non-surgical treatments simply don’t work. If this is the case for you, there are basically two options: You can choose to live with your symptoms or turn to surgery. If treatments such as steroid injections, anti-inflammatory medications or physiotherapy haven’t helped, you may want to talk to an orthopedic surgeon.
Since spinal stenosis is typically not a progressive condition, you probably won’t need to feel any sense of urgency when it comes to having a surgical procedure performed. More than likely, you’ll do just as well if you have the surgery later as you would having it sooner. However, if you have progressive weakness in your legs, you should consider exploring your surgical options as soon as possible in order to reduce the chances for long-term nerve damage.
There is a possibility that you could be a good candidate for a minimally invasive procedure to relieve your symptoms. Speak with an orthopedic surgeon with Advanced Spine & Orthopedics and you’ll receive detailed information concerning all of your options. Give our Grapevine office a call at 817-310-8783 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
