Selkäydintilaan

Selkäydintilaan, also known as spinal stenosis, refers to a narrowing of the spinal canal, the bony channel that houses the spinal cord and nerve roots. This narrowing can put pressure on the spinal cord and/or the nerves branching off from it. The condition can occur in any part of the spine, but it is most common in the neck (cervical spine) and the lower back (lumbar spine).

The most frequent cause of selkäydintilaan is degenerative changes associated with aging. As we get older, the discs between our vertebrae can dry out and shrink, leading to the formation of bone spurs. Ligaments in the spine can also thicken over time. These changes can reduce the space available for the spinal cord and nerves. Other causes can include herniated discs, injuries to the spine, and certain inflammatory conditions.

Symptoms of selkäydintilaan vary depending on the location and severity of the narrowing. In the lumbar spine, common symptoms include pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the legs, often exacerbated by walking and relieved by sitting or leaning forward. In the cervical spine, symptoms can include neck pain, pain radiating into the arms, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hands and arms, and in severe cases, problems with balance and coordination.

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans. Treatment options range from conservative measures like physical therapy, pain medication, and epidural steroid injections to surgical decompression to create more space for the nerves.