Lumbar stenosis is a condition that leads to the narrowing of the spinal cord or the bone tissues that house the spinal nerve. The condition can lead to severe discomfort and make simple activities, like walking, a challenge if left untreated.
In rare cases, lumbar stenosis can be a congenital disability, but it is typically caused by the effects of wear and tear on the body. The condition often worsens as a person gets older, and it can lead to weakness in other parts of the body besides the spine. It can also be caused by degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis, herniated discs, and tumors. A person’s neck and lower back areas are the two most likely parts of the body to be affected by the condition.
The roots of the spinal cord around the lower back area getting compressed leads to weakness, tingling, numbness, and pain in the lower back. These sensations are often transferred to the legs and buttocks. Over time, a person with lumbar stenosis will begin to experience pain whenever they take a step. Walking might eventually become too painful for them.
Lumbar stenosis is more likely to affect adults over the age of 50, and it typically has a significant effect on their quality of life when left untreated. The ways that the condition can negatively impact a person’s life include the following.
Lumbar stenosis makes activities like walking a challenge, so hobbies like playing sports or hiking can be even more difficult. People with the condition often feel pain when they try to move, which encourages them to lead a sedentary lifestyle. The lack of activity leads to challenges of its own, like weight gain and depression.
When left untreated, lumbar stenosis can progress to the point that a person is left disabled. Symptoms can become so severe to the point that a person can no longer stand up on their own.
In some cases, lumbar stenosis can lead to the nerves connected to the bowel or bladder becoming weak. This is a clear sign that the patient needs immediate treatment.
Lumbar stenosis can lead to pain in the legs, buttocks, back, and neck. The pain and discomfort gradually increase over time, and some people do not even notice it when they first develop the condition.
Lumbar stenosis can leave you on the sidelines while life passes you by. It leads to a life filled with weakness, pain, and numbness. It can prevent you from enjoying activities that bring you joy, like walking through a trail or enjoying a slow dance with a significant other. When left untreated, the condition can take away your ability to take care of yourself as you struggle with things like standing up on your own.
Fortunately, our neurosurgeon can restore your quality of life by diagnosing your condition and performing appropriate treatments. Give us a call or visit our Phoenix clinic to set up a consultation.
Request an appointment here: https://arizonaneurosurgeon.com or call Randall Porter, M.D. at (602) 603-8951 for an appointment in our Phoenix office.
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