Lumbar spinal stenosis is a process whereby the spinal canal located at
the lower back of the lumbar vertebrae narrows or becomes smaller in
radius. This can be as a result of injuries for example those that are
traumatic in nature and degenerative illnesses such as disc degenerative
conditions for example arthritis. Within the lumbar, there is an
important nerve that is found in it and when there is any abnormally
within this region, then there is a problem at the lower back running
through to the legs. This is a result of narrowing of the spinal canal which then causes compression of the nerves within the lumbar leading to sciatica. Other conditions can also cause narrowing of the spinal space (lumbar spinal stenosis) leading to irritations and pushing of the nerves that are within the lumbar vertebrae leading to sciatica.
This may include the following:
Tumors
Tumors refer to the increase in the size of various structures or
tissues with the spine. Increased size of the structures within the
spine will most definitely utilize most of the space if not all that is
found in the lumbar vertebrae. Because of this therefore, there will be a
lot of pressure exerted on the nerves that are present within this
vertebrae and this will finally cause sciatica.
It is worth to note that to some people the pain that is experienced in
the lower back through the legs may go unnoticed for along period of
time hence worsening the condition. This is because initially they are
misconstrued with numbness which is experienced in the morning and maybe
after walking or exercising for along period of time. As lumbar spinal stenosis progresses, the patient will start developing sharp/burning and painful pain at the lower back (buttocks) hence sciatica.
Infections
Some infections and diseases may invade the spinal region. These
infections may be accompanied with some rashes, inflammations among
others. These will most definitely change the diameter of the spinal
code which will have an effect on the nerves that are present within the
lumbar region. Once the nerves are pressed and irritated because of
these infections, there will be pain experienced at the lower back and
more often the pain will run through the legs. This may also be
exhibited in form of weakness on the lower region of the back and the
knees.
Metabolic bone disorders
Some disorders may cause bones to grow abnormally more especially in
the spinal region. Because of this growth, the space in this region will
be decreased greatly thus making them narrow. The narrowing of the
spinal area or region will have a direct effect on the nerves that are
present in the lumbar region. This will ultimately have an effect on
their function and this will start by experiencing some pain on the lower back.
The pain and weaknesses at the back can also run through the legs hence
causing discomfort. It is worth to note that some people may disregard
the initial symptoms of this condition leading to complicated levels of
the condition. Bone disorders that are known to cause lumbar spinal
stenosis include Paget’s disease of the bone.
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