Spinal Canal

The spinal canal is the long passageway, enclosed within the foramen of the vertebrae, through which the spinal cord passes. Beginning at the base of the neck and extending all the way to the lower back, this canal provides a pathway for the central nervous system to transmit signals from the brain to the rest of the body and back again. The spinal canal is formed through openings in each vertebra, known as foramina. These openings provide the space for the spinal cord and other spinal nerves to travel through.

Abnormalities

A variety of degenerative spine conditions can cause problems within the spinal canal. For instance, a common issue is the development of spinal stenosis, or the narrowing of the canal. Whether it is a bone spur, bulging or herniated intervertebral disc, calcified ligament, or other abnormality that constricts the space in the spinal canal, when the spinal cord or another spinal nerve is entrapped, potentially debilitating symptoms can arise. This “pinching” of a spinal nerve can produce symptoms that include:

• Localized pain at the site of compression
• Pain that travels the length of the pinched nerve
• Tingling
• Weakness
• Numbness

Treatment for Spinal Canal Stenosis

If a degenerative spine condition has reduced the space within the spinal canal and has pinched a nerve to the point that painful symptoms present, treatment typically begins with a series of conservative, nonsurgical methods. These options are typically very effective in mitigating pain, and can include physical therapy, pain medication, hot/cold therapy, massage, and others. However, if weeks or months of conservative treatment have failed to ease your symptoms caused by spinal stenosis, contact Laser Spine Institute. Our orthopedic experts perform a variety of safe, effective, endoscopic procedures that are minimally invasive alternatives to open spine surgery and that can help you find relief from your chronic back and neck pain.