Spinal stenosis, or narrowing of the spine, is commonly associated with degenerative conditions and aging, according to MayoClinic.com. Individuals over the age of 50 are at increased risk of developing spine narrowing, though youth with spinal birth defects may also have an increased risk of developing stenosis. In the aging process, bone disks in the spine tend to lose water content, resulting in dryness and weakening.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons explains that symptoms of spinal stenosis are initially unnoticed until the condition progresses or is worsened by co-occurring medical complications such as herniated disks or impairing arthritis symptoms.
Step 1
Get an X-ray and physical exam. Evidence of spinal stenosis is visible on an X-ray, notes MayoClinic.com. If you experience discomfort in your back that persists despite home remedies and you are in the higher-risk age group, ask your physician to conduct a physical exam with and X-ray to rule out or determine spinal stenosis as the cause.
Step 2
Start paying attention to radiating pain. A symptom referred to as sciatica, or radiating pain around the buttocks down through the leg, can signify possible stenosis progression. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons explains that this burning pain is due to pressure placed on the spinal nerves and persists over time.
Step 3
Lean forward or sit down. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, leaning forward while sitting increases the space available for the nerves and alleviates pain. Test yourself by leaning forward, and notice if pain subsides or lessens. Stand up straight after leaning, and if the pain returns, this may indicate you have a problematic stenosis condition.
Step 4
Take notice of changes in bowel or bladder control. MayoClinic.com explains that in severe cases of cervical spinal stenosis, the bladder and bowels are impacted and incontinence occurs.
Step 5
Seek medical evaluation if falls occur. Numbness, weakness and tingling in the upper and lower extremities are signs of problematic spinal stenosis. These symptoms may persist and cause you to drop things and fall. Seek medical care to further explore treatment for progressive stenosis problems.
Tips and Warnings
- In the event of paralysis, emergency intervention may be necessary to relieve nerve pressure. Use assistive devices such as canes or walkers to prevent falls. Report motion, sensory and reflexive changes to your physician, as these occurrences may be related to problematic stenosis.
- Do not ignore the presence of abnormalities such as frequent falls, dropping items or excruciating pain, as these are indicators of progressing symptoms.
