Spinal Stenosis May Be The Next Baby Boomer Trend - Dr. Kenneth Light

San Francisco spine surgeon Dr. Kenneth Light comments on spinal stenosis treatment. He says the number of stenosis cases reflects the aging of a huge demographic group.

A normal spine and a spine with stenosis.

San Francisco, CA - From defining the “me” generation to changing the way we think about aging and retirement, the Baby Boomer generation has been driving trends since they were born. Now these 50 and 60-somethings are making their mark on back and spine health care. "Estimates predict that during the coming decade the cases of spinal stenosis will double," says spine surgeon Dr. Kenneth Light.

“Members of this age group, which are maintaining a level of physical activity undreamt of by their parents is fueling an increased demand for management of back pain as they inevitably begin to feel their age,” says Dr. Light.

Spinal stenosis is a degenerative condition that causes a narrowing of the spinal canal and compression of the nerves. “Spinal Stenosis usually affects people about 60 years of age and older, but it can also affect younger people who are born with small spinal canals,” says Dr. Light. “The condition denotes narrowing of the spinal canal,  and / or narrowing of the nerve root canals, which conduct the individual spinal nerves.”

Stenosis occurs as a result of the growth of bone spurs and intervertebral discs  bulging into the spinal canal, which take up the space normally occupied by the spinal cord and / or spinal nerves.  “The symptoms can come on slowly or rapidly,” says Dr. Light. "We are seeing patients who are developing these problems at much earlier ages. People are more active than their parents and are remaining so much later in life. They’re simply expecting more from their bodies, even as they age," he says.

Dr. Light’s patient, “Susan” is one of those baby boomers who have developed spinal stenosis. "Mostly I love running, but I also do cardio and dance moves," she says. “But time is taking it's toll on my back. Sometimes the pain gets pretty severe,” she says. “When that happens, it’s really hard to move.”

Treatment for spinal stenosis can include conservative approaches such as physical therapy and medication. If these treatments don’t bring relief, surgery is the next option.

"There are some newer treatments with surgery that are less invasive or which involve more conservative techniques that may be beneficial, especially for the patient who wishes to maintain an active lifestyle." says Dr. Light. "The boomers want relief from the pain, but they don’t want to lose their ability to keep playing. That’s their next challenge. "

For information on back pain, stenosis and spinal fusion reversal, contact the office of Dr. Kenneth Light at 415.673.4500 or visit www.drkennethlight.com 
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