Foraminal stenosis is a particular type of spinal stenosis, a condition in which the open spaces within the spine narrow. While foraminal stenosis can occur anywhere along the spine, it most often happens in the neck or low back. Initially, the condition may not cause pain. However, when the spinal narrowing pinches or compresses a nerve root, the person may experience pain and other symptoms.
Causes of Foraminal Narrowing
- Spinal injury – Fractures or dislocation of a vertebrae can cause narrowing. The injury could result from an accident or fall.
- Cysts and tumors – These may crowd the spinal cord and compress nerves.
- Osteoarthritis – This degenerative condition, which includes the formation of bone spurs, occurs over time as people age.
- Herniated discs – These can bulge into foraminal openings and compress the nerve root.
- Thickened ligaments – Changes in ligaments due to injury, aging, spinal instability, and repetitive stress may eventually cause foraminal narrowing.
- Paget’s disease – Bone overgrowth from the disease can result in narrowing.
Symptoms of Foraminal Stenosis
Specific symptoms depend on the location of the narrowing.
- Cervical spine (neck) – Neck pain; arm pain; difficulty using the hands; weakness, tingling, or numbness in an arm or hand.
- Thoracic spine (mid back) – Persistent pain in the mid-back; pain in the ribs; limited ability to rotate torso; difficulty moving side to side; discomfort in the legs; difficulty walking; bladder or bowel issues.
- Lumbar spine (low back) – Pain in the low back; numbness or tingling in the buttocks, leg, or foot; weakness in a leg or foot; sciatica; pain that worsens with standing or walking; pain that improves when sitting or bending forward; bladder or bowel issues.
Diagnosis
Physicians start with a thorough physical exam and medical history. Range of motion, reflexes, muscle strength, and balance will be checked. Imaging tests may include x-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI.
Treatment Options
Conservative treatment options are generally tried first. These non-surgical options include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxers, a modification of activities, physical therapy exercises, or spinal bracing for support.
If these treatments are not successful, surgery may be recommended. Decompression surgery may be appropriate if the pain is severe and affects the patient’s quality of life. Surgery can relieve the pressure on the nerve root or spinal cord.
Choosing Atlanta Brain and Spine Care
The Board Certified neurosurgeons at Atlanta Brain and Spine Care are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of foraminal stenosis. Contact our office to schedule a consultation.
