Spinal Canal Stenosis: Diagnosis & Treatment

Overview
Spinal canal stenosis is the narrowing of the central spinal canal, lateral recess, or intervertebral foramen, leading to lower back pain and neurological symptoms in the lower extremities.

Diagnosis
A comprehensive evaluation includes:

• Spinal X-ray – Identifies structural abnormalities

• Myelography – Assesses spinal cord compression using contrast imaging

• Nucleography – X-ray examination of the intervertebral disc

• CT and MRI – Provides detailed imaging of the spine and nerve structures

• EMG (Electromyography) – Evaluates nerve function and muscle response

Treatment
Treatment is determined based on the severity of symptoms and may include:

• Conservative Treatment (3 weeks to 3 months):Physiotherapy and posture correction
  Traction therapy
  Medication and pain management
  Physical therapy to strengthen back muscles
  Wearing a corset for spinal support
  Nerve block injections
  

• Surgical Treatment:Considered when conservative treatment fails to provide relief or if there is severe nerve compression.
  

Cost of Diagnosis & Treatment: 14,000,000 – 33,000,000 KRW