What Does Narrowing of the Spine Mean?
Narrowing of the spine is termed as spinal stenosis. In this condition, the space surrounding the spinal cord or the spinal nerves narrows. This exerts pressure on the spinal cord and/or the nerves. A majority of the cases of narrowing of the spine are seen in the lumbar spine and there is compression of the nerve root. Therefore, the person will experience radiating pain along the back of the leg. It can also cause cramping or numbness in the legs, back, neck, shoulders or arms. In some cases there can also be loss of sensation in the extremities. There are rare cases, where narrowing of the spine has also caused problems with bladder or bowel function. Narrowing of the Spine: Causes Narrowing of the spinal canal is normally seen in middle aged people. The conditions leading to narrowing of the spine can be acquired or inherited. It is oftentimes caused by osteoarthritis related bone damage. The spinal canal is spacious and accommodates the spinal cord. Due to degenerative changes in
