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Lateral Recess/Foraminal Stenosis

Between the vertebrae of the spine, there are openings through which the spinal nerve roots pass to exit the spinal column, called foramen. Foraminal stenosis is a condition in which one or more of the vertebral foramen narrows, impinging on or “pinching” the spinal nerve roots.

What Is Foraminal Stenosis?

Foraminal stenosis is a condition in which one or more of the vertebral foramen narrows, impinging on or “pinching” the spinal nerve roots. It may be caused by a variety of conditions, most of which are associated with degenerative changes in the spine. These include:

• A herniated or bulging disc
• Arthritis
• Bone spurs
• Ligament thickening
• Scar tissue
• Spinal joint enlargement

Because spinal stenosis is so often precipitated by spinal degeneration, it’s most commonly found in patients age 50 or over; however, genetics and congenital conditions also may be a factor.

What Are The Symptoms of Foraminal Stenosis?

The symptoms of foraminal stenosis may include one or more of the following:

• Back or neck pain that tends to worsen progressively rather than develop suddenly.
• Radiating pain that extends into other parts of the body
• Numbness
• Weakness
• Burning, tingling (“pins and needles”) sensation

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