Patient Information Resources


Long Island Spine Specialists, P.C.
763 Larkfield Road
2nd Floor
Commack, NY 11725
Ph: (631) 462-2225
Fax: (631) 462-2240






Child Orthopedics
General
Pain Management
Spine - Cervical
Spine - General
Spine - Lumbar
Spine - Thoracic

« Back

My father has a very bad case of spinal stenosis. He can't straighten up without extreme back and leg pain. He tends to stand and walk bent over now. Why does standing up hurt him so?

Stenosis means closing in. Spinal stenosis describes a condition in which the nerves in the spinal canal are closed in, or compressed. The spinal canal is the hollow tube formed by the bones of the spinal column.

Anything that causes this bony tube to shrink can squeeze the nerves inside. As a result of many years of wear and tear on the parts of the spine, the tissues nearest the spinal canal sometimes collapse and press against the nerves.

This helps explain why lumbar spinal stenosis (stenosis of the low back) is a common cause of back problems in adults over 55 years old. Standing up straight or extending the spine closes the gap or hole where the spinal nerves leave the spinal cord. Bending forward opens this space a little, giving the neural tissue a little more room.

We call this positional-dependent spinal stenosis. There is treatment for this condition. Sometimes exercises to help open up the neural spaces can help the individual stand up straighter. Surgery may be needed to take pressure off the spinal nerves. In some cases, spinal fusion is required to stabilize the spine.

If your father is not under the care of an orthopedic surgeon, you may want to advise him to make an appointment for consultation and planning. A stooped over posture can cause a decline in function, altered breathing and digestion, and other problems that can be avoided.


References:

« Back





*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.


All content provided by eORTHOPOD® is a registered trademark of Mosaic Medical Group, L.L.C.. Content is the sole property of Mosaic Medical Group, LLC and used herein by permission.