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Lumbar Spinal Narrowing

Lumbar spinal narrowing, also known as spinal stenosis in the lumbar region of the spine, is a type of degenerative spine condition that is relatively common in the lower back – particularly later in life. As we grow older, the tremendous weight burden and range of motion associated with the lower back gradually take their toll and cause the spinal anatomy to deteriorate. This is a natural phenomenon and isn’t symptomatic by itself, but in the event that the lumbar spinal canal narrows to the point that it constricts the nerves that it is tasked with protecting, the individual can experience significant lower back and sciatic pain.

The Lumbar Spine

The lumbar spine is comprised of five (or sometimes six) of the largest vertebrae in the spine. These large bones are tasked with the tremendous responsibility of allowing the flexion, extension, and pivoting ability that we require from our lower back. The problem is that the lumbar spine segment is particularly susceptible to spinal deterioration for the same reason that lower back injury and pain is so common. Simply put, the daily strain placed on the lower back takes its toll and often leads to or exacerbates the onset of a number of degenerative spine conditions, such as degenerative disc disease, osteoarthritis, spondylolisthesis, and the development of bone spurs.

Treatment

Decompression treatment for spinal stenosis requires the doctor to determine the actual cause of the nerve constriction in the lumbar spine. Once the doctor has determined the exact location and underlying cause of the condition, he or she will usually first attempt to manage the symptoms conservatively with a series of nonsurgical treatments, including:

• Hot or cold therapy
• Physical therapy
• Pain medication
• Epidural injections
• Alternative medicine
• Limited rest

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In the event that conservative treatment does not provide you with the pain relief you require, contact Laser Spine Institute to learn?more about?our state-of-the-art, minimally invasive decompression techniques.

Please note: Laser Spine Institute currently does not perform endoscopic procedures on the thoracic spine.