by Kaixuan Liu, MD, PhD

What Is Neural Foraminal Stenosis?

Foraminal stenosis refers to the narrowing of the intervertebral foramen, a small hole through which nerves exit our spinal canal and travel through our body. Neural is defined as having to do with nerve cells or relating to a nerve and is often added to the condition’s name.

As foraminal narrowing begins to compress the nerves, various foraminal stenosis symptoms such as pain, numbness, pins and needles or a tingling sensation, and weakness may be felt. If the narrowing affects the nerves in your neck you may feel symptoms in your shoulders, arms, and hands.  If you have foraminal stenosis in your lower back you will feel symptoms in the buttocks, legs, and feet.

To keep your spine and joints healthy exercise 3-5 times a week. If you are a smoker, there is no better time like the present to throw your cigarettes away.  Smoking reduces the amount of blood circulating to your vertebral discs making it tougher for them to heal.

Most cases of stenosis respond well to non surgical treatment, although if your symptoms persist and the pain is interfering with your quality of life, we may recommend a foraminotomy procedure as a treatment option. 

How Does Neural Foraminal Stenosis Develop

As our spine degenerates, whether due to age or other conditions, foraminal narrowing may occur as trapped debris compresses the nerves exiting through the foramen. Nerve impingement due to neural foraminal stenosis can cause nerve death, which is a serious problem. As nerves die, we experience loss of function, which may then affect our senses or sensations and motor ability.