Neural foraminal stenosis is a spinal disorder that can cause significant discomfort. The condition occurs when a hole (usually through bone) through which nerves pass through the spinal cord becomes constricted, or starts narrowing.
Symptoms
Some symptoms of the condition depend on where along the spinal cord that the narrowing is, but common symptoms include pain, tingling, weakness and numbness because of the compression on the nerves.
Causes
This condition is most commonly caused by disc degeneration as a result of the natural aging process. Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and congenital causes are also common causes of this disorder.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis neural foraminal stenosis can be challenging. Because the most common cause is a result of disc degeneration, the symptoms and pain are gradual, and not constant, which can make accurate diagnosis difficult. Along with talking to your physician, x-rays and MRI can be helpful with diagnosis.
Treatment
Medication can be effective in the beginning of the onset of symptoms, but as the condition advances, surgery is the typical treatment to relieve symptoms due to stenosis.
Considerations
Although it is not possible to completely prevent neural foraminal stenosis, keeping your back strong and staying healthy may help prevent injury to your back and reduce your risk of injury. Healthy behaviors include exercising regularly, not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight and maintaining good posture.
