Definition, causes and course of disease
When narrowing the spinal canal, there is a risk of entrapment of nerves. In the spine, which puts a heavy strain on people every day, there are the sensitive spinal nerves. They connect the brain with all other parts of the body. So commands can be sent to the limbs and organs and the senses used. The nerve fibers run in a channel formed by the individual vertebrae and their intervertebral discs. Through small holes they leave him, for example, in the direction of skin or hands to pull. Some people have a narrower spinal canal than others because of their condition. Problems usually occur only after long wear of the vertebrae and their ligaments.
The result can be a painful pressure on the nerves. In severe cases even paralysis phenomena occur. Not every spinal canal narrowing causes discomfort. Most affected are the regions of the back that are under heavy strain: cervical and lumbar spine. Often pain occurs when walking and standing, which is why doctors also speak of a "back intercostal". Those affected must already take a break after short stretches. When cycling or sitting, however, they feel nothing, because these attitudes take the pressure off the spinal cord. Tingling sensations, numbness or paralysis must be investigated immediately.
treatment
Physiotherapy, massages and other physiotherapeutic applications are often enough to treat a spinal canal narrowing. If not, surgery by a specialist will help.
Prevention and self-help
To prevent a narrowing of the spinal canal, it is important to move the body in a variety of ways without overloading the back. Even a straight posture is very important. The sooner you acquire them - at best when you are a child - the more effective the prevention. Best to learn the correct posture in a back school. Swimming strengthens the back without burdening it.
