Is bilateral foraminal stenosis serious?
For some people, the condition doesn’t cause any symptoms and doesn’t require treatment. However, severe cases of neural foraminal stenosis can cause paralysis. If symptoms do occur, they typically happen on the side of the body where the nerve root becomes pinched.
What is the treatment for severe bilateral foraminal stenosis?
Physical therapy will help give you some control over your condition. A few common physical therapy styles for foraminal stenosis include: Ice therapy to numb or mitigate back pain. Massage therapy to relieve pain or pressure across the body.
What does foraminal stenosis bilaterally mean?
Bilateral foraminal stenosis details when the spinal nerve root is compressed on both sides due to narrowing of the foramen that may be caused by an enlarged joint, a collapsed disc space or a foraminal herniated disc.
What are the symptoms of bilateral foraminal stenosis?
Symptoms of Bilateral Foraminal Stenosis
- Pain that develops over the course of time (often years)
- Muscle weakness, tingling, and numbness.
- Pins and needles sensation.
- Burning pain in the extremities.
- Headaches and brain fog (cervical)
What kind of doctor treats foraminal stenosis?
Preparing for your appointment If your primary care doctor thinks you have spinal stenosis, he or she may refer you to a doctor who specializes in disorders of the nervous system (neurologist). Depending on the severity of your symptoms, you may also need to see a spinal surgeon (neurosurgeon, orthopedic surgeon).
What is the difference between spinal stenosis and foraminal stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the canals through which the spinal cord travels, foraminal stenosis is the narrowing through which the spinal nerves travel before exiting the spine.
Can you work with bilateral foraminal stenosis?
As these conditions suggest, foraminal stenosis is a serious medical condition that causes pain and restricted movement. Many people who have a foraminal stenosis are no longer able to work.
