What Spinal Stenosis in the Neck Could Mean For You

Spinal stenosis in the neck can mean many different things for the people who suffer from this condition. Though the vast majority of spinal stenosis cases are not particularly serious, they often produce unwanted symptoms. Spinal stenosis can cause an assortment of symptoms, most notably pain, to be felt throughout your neck and upper extremities. The pain and other symptoms can be debilitating sometimes, and usually require treatment to be relieved. To understand just how spinal stenosis in the neck affects the spine, it is helpful to examine the anatomy and physiology of the cervical spine.

Cervical Spinal Anatomy and Localized Symptoms

The cervical (upper) spine is comprised of seven small bones called vertebrae, sponge-like discs between each vertebra (except between the top two), the spinal cord itself, and nerve roots that branch off the cord. The open area immediately surrounding the spinal cord is what is known as the spinal canal. In a healthy spine, no part of the spinal anatomy is encroaching into the spinal cord or into the area where the nerve roots branch off. When spinal stenosis is present, however, spinal passageways have been narrowed or constricted by one element of the spine or another. Spinal stenosis in the neck not only constricts passageways, but, in some cases, the spinal cord or its nerve roots receive some irritation as well. The result of spinal cord and/or nerve root irritation is usually symptoms of pain felt at the point of impingement.

The Peripheral Nervous System and Radiating Symptoms

The central nervous system consists of the brain and the spinal cord. The peripheral nervous system, on the other hand, is comprised of the many different nerves and nerve roots that extend from the spinal cord and provide sensation and movement to all parts of the body. The roots of the peripheral system meet the central system at various locations along the spinal cord. And, it is not uncommon for one of the many nerve roots to become aggravated as the spinal channels are constricted. When these nerve roots are constricted due to spinal stenosis, they can send symptoms of pain, numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, and muscle spasms across the length of the nerve. When spinal stenosis is present in the neck and adjacent nerve roots are impinged, the symptoms can radiate through the shoulders, arms, and hands. Chronic headaches may also be present.