Definition of the Central Nervous System

The central nervous system (CNS) is the main part of the body’s nervous system and it consists of the brain and spinal cord, which contain billions of neurons. The CNS receives, interprets, and sends information back to the peripheral nervous system (PNS). The PNS connects the glandular system, sensory organs, muscles, and blood vessels to the CNS.

How Is the CNS Affected by Spinal Conditions?

All of the PNS nerve branches that run throughout the entire body begin as nerve roots in the spinal cord. There are 31 left-right pairs of nerve roots in the spine. The spinal canal and the vertebral foramina serve as sheaths or passageways for these nerves. However, if any type of anatomical abnormality in the spine causes these passageways to narrow and exert pressure on any nearby nerve root, painful symptoms can be felt along the entire path of that nerve. For instance, the nerve roots at the junction of the lumbar spine and the sacral spine form the sciatic nerve, which is the largest and longest nerve in the body. If a spinal condition such as spondylolisthesis, spinal stenosis, bone spurs, a herniated disc, or a bulging disc exerts pressure on this nerve, sensations of pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness can spread through the buttocks, legs, and feet.

Treatment for Nerve Compression

Compression of a nerve within the central nervous system or the peripheral nervous system can have a variety of causes, such as injury, disease, congenital defects, or aging. Degeneration due to aging is the most common reason that anatomical abnormalities form and constrict spinal nerves. If your doctor has diagnosed you with compression related to a degenerative condition, there are a variety of conservative treatments that may prove effective. Pain medication, hot-cold compresses, yoga, and behavior modification are all viable options. However, if weeks or months of these methods prove ineffective, consider contacting Laser Spine Institute. Our minimally invasive decompression procedures utilize state-of-the-art endoscopic technology. Contact us to find out more and receive a complimentary review of your MRI or CT scan.