Key Takeaways
- Lateral recess stenosis is a spine condition where the nerve pathway becomes narrow, causing pressure on nerves
- Common symptoms include lower back pain, leg pain, tingling, or weakness, especially while walking or standing
- CT scan is often the preferred diagnostic tool for visualizing bone and narrowing clearly
- Most patients respond well to conservative treatment without surgery
- Early diagnosis prevents nerve damage from worsening over time
Lateral recess stenosis is a spine condition where the nerve pathway on one side of the spinal canal becomes narrow, putting pressure on nearby nerves. This pressure often causes lower back pain, leg pain, tingling, or weakness, especially while walking or standing. It's commonly linked with age-related spine changes and is often confirmed through imaging like a CT scan or CT angiogram when nerve or blood flow concerns exist.
This condition mainly affects the lumbar spine and is frequently confused with general spinal stenosis. The difference lies in location. Early diagnosis matters because nerve pressure can worsen over time. With accurate imaging and the right clinical approach, most patients can manage symptoms well without rushing into surgery.
What Causes Lateral Recess Stenosis?
Lateral recess stenosis develops when structures inside the spine slowly reduce the space meant for nerve roots. These changes don't happen overnight and usually build up over years.
The most common causes include disc bulging, thickened ligaments, facet joint enlargement, and bone overgrowth due to wear and tear. Injuries, poor posture, and repetitive strain can speed things up.
Before listing causes, it helps to understand that many patients have more than one factor involved at the same time.
- Age-related spine degeneration
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Arthritis of facet joints
- Thickened spinal ligaments
- Past spine injury or surgery
Knowing the cause helps doctors decide whether imaging like a CT scan alone is enough or if advanced studies are needed.
Common Symptoms Patients Notice First
Symptoms often start mildly and progress slowly, which is why many people delay evaluation. Pain usually increases during walking or standing and eases with sitting or bending forward.
Leg-related symptoms are more common than back pain. Patients may feel burning, numbness, or weakness that follows a nerve path down one leg. In advanced cases, balance issues can appear.
If symptoms affect daily walking distance or sleep quality, imaging becomes necessary to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other spine problems.
How Lateral Recess Stenosis Is Diagnosed
Clinical examination gives the first clues, but imaging confirms what's happening inside the spine. Doctors look for nerve compression, bone changes, and disc issues.
A CT scan of the spine is often used when clear bone detail is needed. It shows narrowing, joint enlargement, and bony overgrowth very clearly. When symptoms suggest blood vessel involvement or surgical planning is needed, a CT angiogram may be advised.
Compared to other imaging tests, CT-based studies are faster and suitable for patients who can't undergo MRI due to implants or severe discomfort.
CT Scan vs CT Angiogram for Spine Evaluation
Both tests use advanced imaging, but their purpose differs. Choosing the right one depends on symptoms and clinical findings.
| Imaging Test | What It Shows Best | When It's Used |
|---|---|---|
| CT Scan Spine | Bones, joints, canal narrowing | Confirm nerve compression |
| CT Angiogram | Blood vessels, circulation | Suspected vascular involvement |
| Standard CT | Structural changes | Initial spine assessment |
Doctors sometimes combine findings from both to get a complete picture before deciding treatment.
Treatment Options Based on Severity
Treatment depends on symptom intensity and how much nerve compression is seen on imaging. Many patients respond well to conservative care.
Early-stage cases often improve with physical therapy, posture correction, and pain control. Injections may help reduce inflammation around the nerve root.
Surgery is considered only when symptoms limit daily life or nerve damage risk increases. Imaging findings from CT scans guide surgical planning by showing exact compression points.
Costs Patients Commonly Ask About in Dubai
Cost transparency matters when planning diagnostic tests or treatment. Prices can vary based on technology, expertise, and location.
| Service | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| CT Scan Spine | 700 – 1,200 |
| CT Angiogram | 1,800 – 3,000 |
| Specialist Consultation | 300 – 600 |
| Conservative Treatment (per session) | 200 – 400 |
Actual pricing depends on clinical needs and whether contrast or advanced reconstruction is required.
Related Health Conditions Often Discussed Together
Patients with lateral recess stenosis often ask about other health issues during evaluation. Some have existing cardiology concerns, which is why CT angiogram planning considers heart and vessel health.
Clear communication helps separate spine-related imaging needs from other medical concerns without confusion.
Why Accurate Imaging Makes a Real Difference
Imaging isn't just about confirming a diagnosis. It shapes the entire care plan. A detailed CT scan helps avoid unnecessary treatments and focuses attention on the exact nerve involved.
For patients with metal implants or those unable to tolerate long scans, CT-based imaging offers a reliable alternative with quick results. It also plays a key role in follow-up checks after treatment. Getting imaging done at the right center reduces repeat scans and speeds up recovery decisions.
Advanced CT Imaging at Doctors Clinic Diagnostic Center
At Doctors Clinic Diagnostic Center, imaging is planned around patient comfort and diagnostic clarity. Located in Dubai Healthcare City, our center serves patients from Oud Metha, Umm Hurair 2, and Karama.
Our CT Scan & CT Angiogram services support spine, nerve, and vascular evaluation using modern equipment and experienced radiology teams.
Book Spine ConsultationFrequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Lateral recess stenosis can sound alarming, but with clear diagnosis and timely care, most patients manage it well. Understanding symptoms early, choosing the right imaging, and following a guided treatment plan make a real difference in daily comfort and mobility. CT scans and CT angiograms play a central role by showing exactly where nerves are under pressure, helping doctors avoid guesswork. If back or leg symptoms are limiting your routine, getting evaluated sooner rather than later saves time, stress, and unnecessary costs. Reliable imaging, combined with patient-focused care, gives you clarity and confidence in every next step.
Sources & References
This article was reviewed by our medical team and references the following sources:
- Dubai Health Authority - Spine Care Guidelines
- North American Spine Society - Stenosis Management
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons - Spinal Conditions
Medical content on this site is reviewed by DHA-licensed physicians. See our editorial policy for more information.
Written by
Dr. Mersad Moosavi
Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon
MD, Fellowship in Spine Surgery
Dr. Mersad Moosavi is a Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon specializing in spine care and sports medicine. He offers both surgical and non-surgical treatments for back pain at DCDC Dubai Healthcare City.