Foraminal stenosis is a type of spinal stenosis that occurs when part of the spine narrows, compressing the spinal nerve. The condition is fairly common and affects older adults.
The word “foraminal” comes from “foramen,” defined as a small opening or perforation. In this case, it refers to the openings on either side of the spine — the neural foramen or intervertebral foramen. These openings allow nerves branching out from the spinal cord to travel outward to other body parts.
When these openings narrow due to a bone spur or wear and tear from conditions like arthritis, it puts pressure on affected nerves. This can cause nerve pain, disrupted signals to the nerves and even permanent nerve damage.
Several types of foraminal stenosis can occur. They vary by the part of the spine they affect. Foraminal stenosis of the lumbar spine (lower back) and cervical spine (neck) are most common. But the condition can also affect the thoracic spine (upper and middle back), sacral spine (far lower back and pelvis) and coccygeal spine (tailbone).
If you have discomfort or other symptoms that could be related to foraminal stenosis, you can get comprehensive care through the UK HealthCare Comprehensive Spine Center. Our spine experts work together to make a diagnosis. They will design a personalized treatment plan to help you get back to your best.
Most people who have foraminal stenosis don’t have symptoms, even in severe cases. When symptoms exist, it can feel like a pinched nerve. Foraminal stenosis symptoms may include:
- Burning
- Loss of muscle control
- Numbness
- Pins and needles sensations in the arms and legs
- Tingling
- Weakness
Where you feel discomfort depends on the part of the spinal canal affected. Cervical spine foraminal stenosis, for example, may cause symptoms affecting your hand and fingers.
Less often, foraminal stenosis may cause complications such as nerve damage, urinary and bowel incontinence, and chronic pain that disrupts everyday life and mobility. When this happens, surgical treatment is often a good option.
Foraminal narrowing is often related to wear and tear on the spine from aging or from conditions that develop as you age. Causes of foraminal stenosis include:
- Arthritis and overgrowth of the small joints of the spine called facets
- Bone spurs
- Certain surgical procedures for the spine
- Cysts and tumors (both cancerous and noncancerous)
- Degenerative disk disease
- Fractured vertebrae
- Herniated disks
- Inflammatory conditions affecting the soft tissues around the spinal column
A person’s spinal anatomy can also raise the risk of foraminal stenosis. Any abnormal curvature or narrowing in the spinal canal can put pressure on the nerve roots.
Your journey to better spine health begins at home. Before you visit UK HealthCare for spine pain, we review your medical records. We may contact you with follow-up questions. We then discuss your case as a team. Based on these conversations, we determine which specialists will best meet your needs.
Next, we schedule your appointment. To provide you with the best care possible, you may need to meet with multiple providers. This helps us meet all your care needs in a timely manner.
During your first visit, we answer questions and provide information to help you better understand your condition. We also work to find out what is causing your symptoms and develop a treatment plan.
In most cases, we start with non-surgical treatment, such as lifestyle changes and physical therapy. Spine issues that don’t improve with this approach may require other treatment, including pain management and surgical intervention.
When coming to your first appointment, plan to do the following:
- Arrive early. You may need to fill out paperwork when you arrive. Getting to your appointment early gives you time to complete paperwork without feeling rushed.
- Bring a current list of medicines or supplements you take. You should also list any surgeries you’ve had, symptoms you’ve experienced and other past health issues.
- Dress comfortably. Working toward a diagnosis takes time. Comfortable clothes help you stay relaxed and attentive throughout your visit. They also make it easier to perform your physical exam.
- Eat and drink as directed. You may need to have imaging or other tests during your first visit. If you need to adjust your eating, drinking or medicines before a test, a team member will call to explain what you need to do leading up to your visit.
- Have your insurance information on hand. UK HealthCare accepts most insurers, and financial assistance is available.
- Bring a family member or friend with you. This person can help take notes and ask questions you may not think of asking.