What is IVF encroachment?
Foraminal encroachment is a term used to describe degeneration of the spinal column which has caused an obstruction of the foramina. The foramina are open spaces on either sides of the vertebra where the spinal nerves pass on their way to other parts of the body.
What causes IVF encroachment?
Causes and Symptoms of Nerve Encroachment Nerve root encroachment is often caused by degenerative (“wear and tear”) changes in the vertebrae, which is part of the normal aging process. 1 Specifically, these degenerative changes may lead to the formation of bone spurs called osteophytes.
What is encroachment in the neck?
Nerve root encroachment refers to the crowding of the space in and around the spinal column through which nerves pass. This crowding could be the result of spinal stenosis, herniated disc or other things, like injury, repetitive movement, arthritis and/or poor posture habits.
What is the treatment for foraminal encroachment?
The least invasive spine procedures used to treat foraminal stenosis include foraminoplasty, laminotomy and discectomy. Each procedure is designed to take pressure off the nerve and repair the tightening of your foramen.
Is foraminal encroachment a disability?
Foraminal Stenosis can be one of the spine disorders that qualify for disability. The symptoms of foraminal stenosis can be severely disabling. The SSA uses a medical guide, which is called the Blue Book, to determine if a claimant medically qualifies for disability benefits.
What are the symptoms of foraminal encroachment?
Symptoms. The symptoms may include numbness, weakness, burning sensations, tingling and “pins and needles” in the arms and legs. The risk of the foramen narrowing increases with age and with other musculoskeletal conditions, such as arthritis.
What happens if foraminal stenosis is left untreated?
Not every case of foraminal stenosis will result in even temporary paralysis. This symptom is most likely to occur if the foraminal stenosis is undiagnosed and/or untreated. If this condition is ignored or not detected, then afflicted nerves may die, which can lead to loss of bodily function.
Can I work with foraminal stenosis?
As these conditions suggest, foraminal stenosis is a serious medical condition that causes pain and restricted movement. Many people who have a foraminal stenosis are no longer able to work.
What kind of doctor treats foraminal stenosis?
Preparing for your appointment If your primary care doctor thinks you have spinal stenosis, he or she may refer you to a doctor who specializes in disorders of the nervous system (neurologist). Depending on the severity of your symptoms, you may also need to see a spinal surgeon (neurosurgeon, orthopedic surgeon).
Can you live a normal life with cervical spinal stenosis?
The tightness can pinch the spinal cord or the nerves around it, causing pain, tingling, or numbness in your legs, arms, or torso. There’s no cure, but there are a variety of nonsurgical treatments and exercises to keep the pain at bay. Most people with spinal stenosis live normal lives.