If you are a patient of cervical spinal stenosis, you may find that the symptoms are quite similar to fibromyalgia. In fact, this is a neurological syndrome that is related to fibromyalgia and it can be discomforting. There are several studies investigating whether patients with fibromyalgia have higher possibilities of experiencing cervical spinal stenosis.
What You Need To Know About Cervical Spinal Stenosis?
Cervical Spinal Stenosis is a neurological condition that affects the spinal canal of the patient. The spinal canal features the spinal cord and the nerve roots, which are essential for optimal neurological functioning. When you suffer from the condition, the spinal canal tends to narrow down. This constriction leads to the tightening and irritation of the nerves. Thus, the nervous system gets affected due to cerebro-spinal fluid blockage.
What Causes Cervical Spinal Stenosis?
There are certain factors responsible for the cervical spinal stenosus. The causes include:
- Spinal injury
- Degradation of spinal canal due to aging
- Cervical disc
- Inborn condition
Symptoms Related to Cervical Spinal Stenosis
A patient may suffer from the following symptoms:
- Weakness and fatigue
- Numbness
- Tingling sensation
- Chronic pain
The pain is slow and evolves over the years. In certain cases, the pain related to the condition can leave the patient paralyzed.
Are Cervical Spinal Stenosis and Fibromyalgia Related?
The symptoms associated with both the conditions are very similar, in particular weakness and pain. In fact, cervical spinal stenosis has been associated as the main cause of fibromyalgia. Moreover, it is also linked with fibromyalgia’s symptom of chronic fatigue syndrome. Researchers are studying whether fibromyalgia patients are more prone to spinal cord constriction.
How to diagnose?
Cervical spinal stenosis can be diagnosed with the help of MRI scans. With the help of radio frequency waves and powerful magnetic fields, clear images of the soft tissues adjoining the areas can be verified. Hence, diagnosing the condition is not a challenging task.
Treatment possibilities
The good news is there are two treatment options, namely:
- Activity modification
- Cervical stenosis surgery
People with minor issues can make necessary changes in their daily lifestyle to avoid injury. On the other hand, people with more serious condition can opt for the cervical stenosis surgery. This involves removing the spinal disc to allow more space for the nerves. Henceforth, symptoms like discomfort and pain can be reduced. The surgery demands an overnight stay in the hospital. Within 6 weeks, the patient is fit to continue with daily activities.
Reference: http://healthiculture.com/cervical-spinal-stenosis-in-fibromyalgia/
