Congenital means “existing from birth.” Congenital spinal problems are those that you are born with. These issues are caused by abnormal development in the spinal canal and usually are the result of atypical vertebral development in the embryo. Some of the more common congenital disorders are spina bifida, congenital scoliosis, vertebral stenosis, lumbarization, sacralization, spondylolisthesis, torticollis, and lordosis. These issues can be hard to identify and usually are discovered incidentally or through diagnostic radiology.
One of the more common congenital diseases is spinal stenosis. Congenital spinal stenosis is caused by a narrowing of the spinal cord that’s present at birth. While this narrowing doesn’t cause problems itself, it makes individuals more susceptible to developing stenosis due to compression of the spinal nerves and spinal cord. This compression can cause a variety of problems including pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms, hands, legs, and feet. It can interfere with walking and balancing.
Stenosis can occur in the upper spine near your neck, which is known as cervical spinal stenosis, or in the lower back, which is known as lumbar spinal stenosis. Spinal stenosis treatment ranges from conservative, including physical therapy or epidural injections, to aggressive, often involving a laminectomy. Additionally, there are some cutting-edge, minimally invasive treatments available, like Vertiflex Superion.
Treatment for congenital spinal problems varies widely dependent on the type and severity of the disorder. It can include physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, minimally invasive procedures, or even surgical procedures. To properly treat spinal disorders, it’s first necessary to properly diagnose any conditions. Once you’ve received a thorough diagnosis, it’s important to work with a spine specialist to learn more about treatment options.
If you’re suffering from chronic back pain or spine pain, it could be the result of a congenital spine problem. To get relief from your symptoms, consult with a spine specialist as soon as possible for a thorough diagnosis and treatment plan.
