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Who’s at Risk for Spinal Stenosis? 7 Risk Factors

Advantage Spinal Dynamics & Innovative Medicine Blog Who’s at Risk for Spinal Stenosis? 7 Risk Factors
Who’s at Risk for Spinal Stenosis? 7 Risk Factors

Spinal stenosis can be one of the most challenging causes of back and neck pain, due to the changing structure of the spine itself.

At Advantage Spinal Dynamics & Innovative Medicine in Meridian, Idaho, our team diagnoses and treats spinal stenosis, even in its early stages, helping to relieve neck pain and lower back pain. Here’s how you can reduce your risk of this condition and slow its advancement.

Spinal stenosis basics

Spinal stenosis occurs when the channel around your spine, which holds the spinal cord and nerve roots, narrows due to genetics, injury, aging, or a job that puts pressure on your spine. Pressure on nerve roots and the spinal cord can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:

People experience spinal stenosis differently. Some have deep lower back pain that sends shooting jabs down their legs. Others have terrible cervical neck pain that can feel like someone is jabbing you with a large needle at the top of your spine.

Common risk factors for spinal stenosis

Some cases of spinal stenosis start before a person is even born. Others show signs after an accident or injury. Many people don’t display symptoms of spinal stenosis until they’re much older. Here are seven common risk factors for spinal stenosis.

1. Genetics 

Congenital defects account for around 9% of all cases of spinal stenosis. Children born with scoliosis or dwarfism need immediate spinal care to reduce spinal issues as they grow.

2. Aging

On the other end of the spectrum is aging. As you get older, the discs in your back become flatter and less flexible, leading to bulging of the disc and narrowing of the canal. That can impact nerves and cause pain and neuropathy. 

Good posture, proper diet, pain management, and a well-planned exercise routine can help. 

3. Trauma

If you’re in an accident or suffer an injury from falling or playing sports, pain in your back could be a sign of damage that can rear its head again later. Always see a doctor if you injure your back or neck, and get rehabilitative therapy if necessary.

4. Arthritis

Arthritis is associated with aging, but it also affects younger people. Bending your neck wrong to look at a monitor or phone can cause inflammation and slowly accrue damage. 

Your posture is also a factor, particularly how you support your lower back. Invest in ergonomic office equipment to help reduce your risks.

5. Occupational hazards

Sitting at a desk can be bad for you. So can working in a warehouse or elsewhere and lifting heavy items all day. Improper lifting can damage your lower spine and lead to spinal stenosis. Always lift heavy items properly to avoid spinal injuries.

6. Smoking

Almost every potential bad health condition can be made worse by smoking. It increases inflammation, which can cause narrowing of the canal and put pressure on nerve roots. If you smoke, consider quitting now rather than later. Your lungs, heart, and spine will thank you.

7. Obesity

Being obese puts extra pressure on your entire body, including the length of your spine from the bottom of your skull to your tailbone. Over time, that pressure can narrow your spinal canal, leading to spinal stenosis that can be hard to treat. Losing weight can lower your risk.

Treating spinal stenosis

For many people with early-stage spinal stenosis, regular chiropractic care can help relieve pressure, improve posture, and slow the progression of the condition. 

For advanced spinal stenosis, you may need surgery to remove parts of a disc or bone that’s pressing on nerves. We can assess your condition and present a customized treatment plan.

To learn more about spinal stenosis, schedule a consultation at Advantage Spinal Dynamics & Innovative Medicine by calling 208-213-7963, or request an appointment online today.

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