Lateral recessstenosis(LRS) is the narrowing of the space within thespinal canalthat is located toward the sides.
Lateral Recess Stenosis Causes
Lateral recess spinal stenosis is also known asforaminalstenosis.
This is called encroachment or impingement.
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Whenencroachmentoccurs, it may cause pronounced pain and other symptoms.
In this case,myelopathysymptoms may ensue.
Myelopathy symptoms result from irritation or compression of the spinal cord.
As an example, the development of lateral recess stenosis may occur when age-related changes in theligamentum flavumoccur.
A thickened ligamentum flavum creates a narrower spinal canalthe hallmark sign of central canal stenosis.
If the buckling impinges on the spinal cord, it may cause myelopathy symptoms.
Is Lateral Recess Stenosis Painful?
Lateral recess stenosis causes pain that gradually increases over time.
Some people experience more pain during rest and at night.
Should your provider suspect a spinal abnormality, they may order anX-ray of your spine.
These imaging tests will give them a more detailed look at your spinal canal and nerves.
The combination of a physical exam and imaging tests is often sufficient to make a diagnosis.
However, there are lateral stenosis recess treatments and therapies that can help relieve symptoms.
A provider also may recommend lifestyle changes, such as nutrition and stress management education.
While there is no cure for lateral recess stenosis, treatments and therapies can help relieve symptoms.
These include physical therapy to improve movement and flexibility and cortisone injections to ease pain and inflammation.
Often, steroid injections may be used with other interventions as part of an overall treatment plan.
Physical Therapy
In an effort to avoid pain, some people with lateral recess avoid physical activity.
Instead, your physical therapist will show you how to stretch while lying down.
They will then widen the intravertebral foramen and remove any blockages that are compressing nerves.
Although rare, the procedure can also result in additional nerve damage and damage to the spinal cord.
In most cases, a physical exam along with imaging can support a diagnosis.
Depending on the severity, your healthcare provider may take a wait-and-see approach or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers.
Prescription drugs, steroid injections, physical therapy, and surgery may be necessary.
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