Back Conditions
- Back Conditions A-Z
- Herniated Disc
- Sprains and Strains
- Degenerative Disc Disease
- Spondylolisthesis
- Facet Arthritis
- Spinal Stenosis
- Failed Back Surgery
Back Pain Treatments
Useful Tools
Spinal Stenosis
- What causes spinal stenosis?
- How is spinal stenosis diagnosed?
- Can spinal stenosis make you disabled?
- more faqs »
General Information
Spinal Stenosis is a common and potentially crippling condition affecting most of us to some extent as we get older. It can occur anywhere in the neck, middle, or lower spine. Although there are many types and causes of spinal stenosis, the most common occurs over the age of 60, affecting women slightly more than men. We all will to some extent develop a degree of spinal stenosis as part of the normal aging process. However, most of us will not be aware of this potential problem. However, once it becomes symptomatic, it is difficult to alleviate the symptoms completely.
If you are unsure of what is causing your back pain our self diagnosis tool is the perfect place to begin. The process only takes a few minutes and gives you the confidence of knowing why you are in pain and how you can treat it. Click here to begin.
Symptoms
You can think of spinal stenosis as “angina of the spine”. In spinal stenosis, the spinal canal becomes narrowed to the point that the micro-circulation to the spinal cord and spinal nerves are compromised. This causes a variety of symptoms including back pain, sciatic nerve pain, numbness, weakness, balance problems, a flexed forward posture, difficulty walking any distances, and/or any combinations of these. In severe cases, muscle atrophy along with bowel and bladder disturbances may develop. Spinal stenosis is also called the great masquerader since it can mimic several other conditions such as peripheral vascular disease, neuropathy, large joint problems, or central nervous system disorders.
Just like all other medical conditions, the key to successful treatment is early diagnosis. With a correct diagnosis, you can be sure that there are no other underlying problems that will cause more serious symptoms in the future. If you have any questions or concerns you would like answered, please feel free to contact Dr. Biscup and he will be happy to answer them for you. Click here to contact Dr. Biscup.