In leading Eastern Iowa Brain and Spine Surgery in Cedar Rapids, David H. Segal, MD, emphasized a conservative, minimally invasive approach to care. With an MD from the State University of New York Health Science Center, Dr. David H. Segal works with surgical and non-surgical patients to address issues of the spine such as lumbar (lower back) and cervical (neck) spinal stenosis.
Most common among patients over 50 years of age, lumbar and cervical spinal stenosis involve a painful narrowing of the spinal canal as the open spaces between the vertebrae shrinks. Often associated with arthritis, they involve a pinching of the spinal cord and surrounding nerves. This results in tingling, numbness, and pain that may extend through the torso to extremities such as the arms and legs.
Common spinal stenosis symptoms include sciatica or shooting pain that begins as an ache in the buttocks or lower back and courses down the leg. Painful leg weakness may cause foot drop or slapping of the foot as it comes in contact with the ground. Pain may make it difficult to walk or stand, and bowel or bladder control loss can also occur. The latter symptoms are serious and call for an immediate visit to a physician.
Treatments for spinal stenosis range from muscle relaxants: and over-the-counter pain medications to various types of surgery that address vertebral insufficiencies or thickened ligaments. Because of the complexity of the spine, always consult with a specialist physician on the best ways of addressing the issue.
