What is Spinal stenosis?

One of the most common causes of back pain is narrowing of the spinal canal. Inside the spinal canal run nerves which go to all parts of the body. When narrowing of the canal occurs, it may compress the nerves which results in symptoms. The narrowing of the spinal canal can occur from a variety of medical disorders.

What happens when the spinal canal narrows?

As the spinal canal narrows, it compresses the nerves which exit the spinal cord. Spinal stenosis is most often seen in the lower back and frequently affects elderly individuals-however, it can also occur in young individuals also. the reason why elderly get more spinal canal narrowing has been attributed to getting old.
In some rare cases, the spinal canal in the lower back may be narrowed due to a congenital disorder or from trauma.

Does everyone with spinal canal narrowing develop symptoms?

While everyone develops some degree of spinal canal narrowing with age, not everyone develops symptoms. Some individuals develop symptoms even with degrees of stenosis whereas others can have moderate degree of stenosis and yet have no symptoms.

What are typical symptoms of spinal canal narrowing?

Individuals who have narrowing of spinal canal usually complain of low back pain which often radiates into the buttocks and may go down to back of the thigh. The pain is typically worse while walking or prolonged standing. When lying down the pain can ease off. The pain is often a dull ache in the back but can also produce sharp pains in the buttocks and legs.

What are other symptoms of spinal canal narrowing?

Other symptoms of spinal canal narrowing include burning pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the affected leg.

How is the diagnosis of spinal canal narrowing made?

The diagnosis of spinal canal narrowing is usually made with an MRI. CT scans are also quite good at revealing the narrowing.

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