MySpondylitisTeam

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal — the tunnel that runs through each vertebra in your spine. Inside that tunnel sits your spinal cord, which carries messages between your brain and the rest of your body. When the canal narrows, it puts pressure on the spinal cord, which can cause a range of uncomfortable Show Full Answer

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal — the tunnel that runs through each vertebra in your spine. Inside that tunnel sits your spinal cord, which carries messages between your brain and the rest of your body. When the canal narrows, it puts pressure on the spinal cord, which can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms. For people with spondylitis, spinal stenosis can develop as a complication of the condition. As spondylitis causes bone changes over time — like bony growths, bone spurs, or thickening of ligaments — these changes can narrow the spinal canal and compress nerves.

Common symptoms of spinal stenosis include:

- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms, hands, feet, or legs
- Dull aches or shooting pain
- Difficulty with balance or feeling clumsy
- Neck or back pain
- In severe cases, problems with bladder or bowel control

One thing worth noting — spinal stenosis pain tends to be worse with movement, which is a bit different from typical spondylitis pain that usually improves with movement. The good news is that most people can manage spinal stenosis without surgery. Treatment options that are relevant for spondylitis patients include:

- Physical and occupational therapy to help maintain mobility
- NSAIDs to reduce pain and inflammation
- Biologic DMARDs to target the underlying inflammation from spondylitis
- Surgery (spinal decompression) as a last resort if other treatments aren't enough

Catching stenosis early is really important, so it's worth flagging any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor sooner rather than later.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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