Week 3 - Spinal Stenosis and Claudication Flashcards
what is spinal stenosis?
loss of space for the cauda equina causing compression/irritation of multiple nerve roots
name 5 possible causes of spinal stenosis?
spondylitis
bulging discs
bulging ligamentum flavum
osteophytosis
who usually gets spinal stenosis?
over 60 y/o
what is the most characteristic symptom of spinal stenosis?
claudication in the legs
how does claudication due to spinal stenosis differ to that caused by peripheral vascular disease?
the distance which causes symptoms is inconsistent
the pain is burning rather than cramping
pain is less walking uphill
pedal pulses are preserved
how is spinal stenosis treated?
conservative management - physiotherapy, weight loss
decompression surgery - if symptoms don’t improve with conservative management and there is MRI evidence of stenosis