Foraminal Stenosis Definition

If you are suffering from foraminal stenosis, knowing the definition of the condition can be helpful as you consider your treatment options. In general terms, foraminal stenosis refers to the narrowing of the canals in the vertebrae that are responsible for protecting the nerve roots as they exit the spinal column. This constriction can disrupt regular nerve function and result in pain and other pain-related symptoms.

Spinal Anatomy

In the spine, nerves branch off the spinal cord and exit the spinal column through holes between the vertebrae, known as the foramen. These nerves then extend into the body and facilitate the flow of information to and from the brain. However, as the spine degenerates over time (or after an injury) the foramen can become narrowed by tissue, eventually compressing the nerve. Some common sources of foraminal stenosis include:

• Degenerative disc disease, which causes herniated, prolapsed or bulging discs
• Facet disease and other forms of osteoarthritis
• Injury causing muscle, ligament and tendon inflammation
• The formation of osteophytes, also known as bone spurs
• Obesity, which adds stress to the spine
• Other sources, such as disease or infection

Symptoms

In addition to back or neck pain, foraminal stenosis can lead to a number of frustrating symptoms such as muscle weakness, a noticeable loss of flexibility, diminished reflexes, tingling in the fingers or toes, and more. Specific symptoms of nerve compression, known as radiculopathy, are wholly dependent on the location of the affected nerve. For example, foraminal stenosis in the lumbar spine (lower back) can lead to compression of the sciatic nerve and pain in the legs; nerve compression in the cervical spine (neck) may cause pain that radiates into the arms.

Treatment

If you are considering your treatment options for foraminal stenosis, or you’re just looking for a more involved definition, contact Laser Spine Institute. At Laser Spine Institute, we excel at alleviating pain from stenosis with minimally invasive, outpatient endoscopic procedures. Call today to learn more about Laser Spine Institute and to request a free review of your MRI.