Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center announces a free educational event for individuals suffering from the symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS).  This free educational program will be presented on Tuesday, November 3, at 6:30 p.m. at McDowell Wellness Center, located at 1107 Ben Ali Drive in Danville.  The speaker will be Robert Knetsche, M.D., a spine surgeon on the medical staff at Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center.  Individuals interested in attending are asked to call (877)837-1050.

During the program, individuals with spinal stenosis will have the opportunity to meet with physicians and learn more about the management and treatment of their disease.

Lumbar spinal stenosis is the most common reason for back surgery in people over the age of 65 in the United States.  LSS is a sometimes painful condition caused by a gradual narrowing of the spinal canal, which can impinge and put pressure on the nerve roots and spinal cord, causing pain and discomfort.

Patients with lumbar spinal stenosis often notice pain in the buttocks or a “pins and needles” sensation in the thigh or leg that occurs when standing (extension) or walking.  The discomfort is

usually relieved by bending forward (flexion) or with sitting.  In some cases, a patient will complain of leg pain and weakness without having any back pain.

Symptoms often limit self-support daily activities, work, social and recreational pursuits.  Lack of activity can lead to obesity, depression and general physical deterioration.

This education event will help patients understand their disease and how to manage their condition.  LSS patients will understand treatment options including non-operative therapy, traditional surgery and a new minimally invasive technology.