Spinal Stenosis is a common back problem as the spine ages. As the spine compresses with age, the bone fans and bulges creating irregularities that can damage the nerves in the spinal cord.
What You Notice
Symptoms will gradually become noticeable, then intensify and worsen over time. Usually, one side or the other of the body is affected, not both. As the symptoms progress, if not treated, they can become intensely painful, and if the injury to the nerve is serious enough, it may kill the nerve, or make healing impossible. Symptoms are more likely to be present or get worse when you stand or walk upright. They will often lessen or disappear when you sit down or lean forward. Most people with spinal stenosis cannot walk for a long period of time.
What It Feels Like
- Numbness, cramping, or pain in the back, buttocks, thighs, or calves, or in the neck, shoulders, or arms
- Weakness of a portion of a leg or arm
- Difficulty or imbalance when walking
- Problems controlling urine or bowel movements
- Problems urinating or having a bowel movement
Take Action
See us immediately so that the severity of your condition can be determined. Swift action can prevent permanent nerve damage involving complete loss of sensation in the feet and legs.
Stenosis is the bony in growth of the spinal cord channel that begins to interfere with the spinal cord.