Spinal Stenosis

November 10th, 2008 | by admin |

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Spinal Stenosis

Symptoms and Treatment of Lumbar Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is caused by narrowing in the openings of the vertebrae that nerves pass through. When the narrowed area is in the lower back, it is called lumbar stenosis. The symptoms of lumbar stenosis are related to the compression of nerves that go to the hips, legs and feet.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of lumbar stenosis is pain in the legs. Sometimes people will have what’s called “neurogenic claudication” pain, which is heaviness, aching or cramping in your legs when you walk. Claudication pain gets worse if you walk and is relieved by sitting or lying down. It can be caused by impaired circulation to the legs (vascular claudication) or by lumbar stenosis. The claudication pain of lumbar stenosis is usually also relieved by bending over or stooping down.

People with lumbar stenosis can also have “radicular pain,” or pain that radiates down one or both legs, also called sciatica. Other sensory abnormalities caused by lumbar stenosis are tingling, heaviness or numbness in your toes, feet and legs. Motor abnormalities include weakness in one or both legs and difficulty walking.




Rarely, severe lumbar stenosis can cause “caudae equinae syndrome.” The spinal cord itself ends in the lower back and splits into several nerves. Those nerves continue down the spinal canal and exit in pairs between the vertebrae. Lumbar stenosis that compresses the caudae equinae can cause “saddle anesthesia,” or loss of feeling where you would sit on a saddle, bladder or fecal incontinence and sexual dysfunction. It is considered a medical emergency because only a very large disc herniation or other serious problem can cause caudae equinae syndrome.

Treatment

Treatment modalities for lumbar stenosis can be divided into three categories: conservative, alternative and surgical.

Conservative treatment includes anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxers and pain medications. Physical therapy is often helpful in improving pain and mobility. If the pain continues, you could receive cortisone or anesthetic injections. Anesthetic injections, or nerve blocks, usually give you some relief from the pain. Cortisone injections seem to be less effective.

Chiropractic, massage and acupuncture are alternative treatments. They provide excellent pain relief for some people.

Surgery is usually a laminectomy, or removal of some of the bone around the spinal canal, to make a larger opening for the nerves. Sometimes a spinal fusion is done, too, to stabilize the vertebrae and keep them from slipping and compressing the nerves.

Many people, especially those who are older or who have other health risks, benefit from minimally invasive surgery for lumbar stenosis. The surgeon views the lumbar spine with a microscopic endoscope and uses microsurgical techniques to make specific repairs. Endoscopic surgery is less invasive and better tolerated than traditional surgery.

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About the Author: David Betz is a consultant doing work for Laser Spine Surgery http://www.laserspineinstitute.com and
Houston Web Site Design http://www.novatexsolutions.com

More articles by egalthan

This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Seek the guidance of a licensed physician if you need medical advice.

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  1. 49 Responses to “Spinal Stenosis”

  2. By angela d nixon on Nov 12, 2008 | Reply

    I have been diagnosed with hypertrophy of left uncovertebral articulation that has resulted in left neural forminal stenosis with spondylitic changes in c6-7 and loss and straightening of the normal lordotic curvature of the cervical spine.I also have a bulging disc in c5-6 and mild degeneration.I have already had a dics replacement in l 4-5 area.iwas hurt at work 2 years ago which pulled my left shoulder out of socket and that is when i started haveing the neck problem could this be caused from that or just from normal disc degeneration.This is very important that i need to know.Thank you Angi

  3. By Scarlett Hara on Jan 11, 2009 | Reply

    Spinal problems is one of the debilitating condition faced by people worldwide, information of any kind helps people to be cautious. Dr. Scatena atScatena Chiropractic, Lexington, Kentucky helped me to get relieve from intense pain with spinal decompression therapy. Spinal problems are a symptom, not disease. This pain in most cases can be relieved when treated by a professional.
    Thanks to Dr. Scatena I no longer suffer from pain.

  4. By Audrey Humphries on Jan 30, 2009 | Reply

    I have been diagnosed with spinal stenosis and have had epidurals 2-3 times a year for the past 4 years and have had physical therapy in the early stage. My condition has grown increasingly worse over the past 2 years. I have pain that radiates down my legs and the worst part is the numbness and tingling in my feet and calves of my legs. It is worse at night when I am in bed. I am considering surgery and would like to know if this is the way I should go or is there another option. I am unable to walk any distance, but can do fairly well as long as I am pushing a cart such as at the grocery store. Thank you for any information you can give me.

  5. By phyllis sherman on Feb 14, 2009 | Reply

    I’m 80 years old and have been diagnosed with scoliosis, spinal stenosis and moderate to severe degenerative discs L-4/5/6/7 and take hydrocodone 7.5 to relieve the pain every 3 or so hrs. Have had 2 epidurals with no results. PT has been minimally helpful Walking for several blocks without a cane is impossible. Grocery store carts helpful. Pain radiates in lower back and in rear of right leg. Broke my rt. hip 4 yrs. ago and it was “repaired”, not replaced, by a non-Bd Certified back surgeon who lost a screw during the procedure and told me that I’d have a slight limp. That is what begin the entire problem. Please RSVP with any info you can provide. UCSF wants to operate with Laminotomy & fusion.

  6. By Anon-Ymous on Feb 21, 2009 | Reply

    My dog has spinal stenosis and I found this for an all natural treatment. Treatments for dogs work for people as well since we are all mammals.
    Spinal Stenosis is difficult as is it basically the narrowing of the
    spinal canal, so the spinal nerves get damaged. Surgery is usually the
    best option, but I completely understand in your case that this is out
    of the question.
    I would find someone in your area who performs Cranio-Sacral Therapy and
    book him in for regular visits. Also acupuncture could be beneficial.
    You could also try keeping him on Robert McDowell’s canine Nerve
    regeneration herbal blend for a couple of months to see if that prevents
    further damage: http://www.herbal-treatments.com
    Keep him hydrated – make sure he is drinking his water. Also give him
    some flax-seed oil with his meals (approx 1 teaspoon per day).
    You may also want to try him on some Nano-Magnesium (Essence of Life
    products) available from: http://www.glnau.com
    Magnesium is essential and is often lacking. The chief function of
    magnesium is to activate certain enzymes, especially those related to
    carbohydrate metabolism. Another role is to maintain the electrical
    potential across nerve and muscle membranes. It is essential for proper
    heartbeat and nerve transmission.
    With the magnesium, as well as the herbal nerve regeneration, make sure
    to always follow directions exactly. More is not better and can result
    in Little Bit feeling nauseated.
    I hope this has been helpful.
    Also check out http://www.shirleys-wellness-cafe.com
    Seek someone who uses muscle testing/kenisiology. They can provide the best treatment.

  7. By ROBERT TUCKER on Mar 18, 2009 | Reply

    I AM 52, AND HAVE HAD PPARKINSONS FOR 22 YRS.
    AND HAD NBACK PROBLEMS FOR ABOUT 12 YRS.LUMBAR
    STENOSIS I BELIEVE IS WHAT IT IS CALLED. IT REALLY GOT SEVERE ABOOUT 5 OR 6 YRS AGO, OR SO I THOUGHT.ANYWAYI HAD 2 BACK SURGERIES , BOT WITH WELL REGARDED ORTOPODS. 5 YEARS LATER
    I NOW KLNOW WHAT REAL PAIN IS. IT’S FALLING ON YOUR KNEES ON HARD ASPALT OR A TILED FLOOR.TEARS STREAMING DOWN YOUR FACE, KNOWING HOW DAMN REDICULOUS YOU LOOK BUT NOT BEING ABLE
    TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT.PAINIS NOW CONTIONOUS WITH
    ME.WHEN I WAKEIN THE AM HUGE JOLTS OFIGHTENING DOWN EACH LEG. I QUICKLY GRAB WHAT EVER IS AVAILABLE TO STOP FROM FALLING.I DON’T CHOOSE
    CORRECTLY, AND END UP SWINGING AROUND A BED POST AND WHACKING MY HEAD OR JUST SIMPLY MISS VERYTHING ENTIRELY,THUS HITTING THE FLOOOR. WHAT A WAY TO START A MORNING. PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT YOU KNOW.I HAVEN’T BEEN WALKING FOR ABOUT 2 WEEKS ANNDNOW KI HE FOUJNS A NEW RESPECT FOR THOSE CONDSEMNED TOA LIFE IN A WHEEL CHAIR.AT LEAST I GOT TO WALK A LOT , YOU SEE, I WAS A LANDSURVEYOR FOR ABOUT 15 YEARS, AND MOSTLY OPUT WEST IN COLORADO. I USED TO AVERAGE ABOUT 25 MILES PER DAY. LIKE THE BEER COMMECCIAL SAYS”IIT DONN’T GET ANY BETTER THAN
    THIS”. THEN PARKINSONS CAME ALONG AND IN A MATTER OF 9 YEARS ORSOI WAS COLLLCTING DISSABILITY AND TAKINGABOUT 18 DIFFERENT TYPES OF MEDS EVERY 3 HRS. I KNOW, I HAVE HEARD IT ALL BEFORE. SOMEONEELSE ALWAYSHAS IT WORSE OFF THAN YOU. WHICH IS TRUE. BUT WHILE I FEEL COMPASSSION FOR THESE PEOPLE,IS THEIR MISERY SUPPOSED TO MAKE ME FEEL BETTER? IT DOESN’T.
    ANYWAY, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN,12 YEARS AGO, AFTER SAVING EVERY DOLLLAR THAT WE COULD, WE HAD LOG HOME BUILT ON ABEAUTIFUL LAKE IN THE HILS OF TENESSEE, AN I WTCH IT FROM ABOVE. THANKS FOR LISTENING

  8. By karen wilson on Mar 19, 2009 | Reply

    I HAVE LUMBAR SPINAL STENOSIS FOR 2 YRS…. I’M 51 YRS. OLD. ITS SO PAINFULL THAT I TOOK A SICK LEAVE FROM MY JOB .THE ONLY HOUSEWORK I CAN DO IS STRAIGHTEN UP MY BEDROOM AND MY BED…I CAN DO THE DISHES. SOMETIMES I’VE HAD TO SIT DOWN WHILE DOING THEM. I WALK WITH A CANE, AND WALKER. I CANNOT BEND, STAND FOR VERY LONG,OR WALK FAR BECAUSE OF BACK PAIN. IT HAS REALLY CHANGED MY LIFE. BEFORE I WAS VERY ACTIVE.I STILL TRY TO KEEP MY MIND BUZY WITH CROCHETING, AND WORD SEARCH AND PUZZLES. I RECEIVEEPIDURALS ONCE A MTH. FOR MY PAIN. THEY TEND TO HELP SOME. THEY TAKE THE EDGE OFF.I TAKE 600 MG. MOTRIN AND VICODIN, BUT TRY NOT TO TAKE THE LATTER CAUSE THEY MAKE M,E SICK… THEY SAID NO SURGERY RIGHT NOW.

  9. By ROBERT TUCKER on Mar 20, 2009 | Reply

    KAREN, I HAD 2 SURGERIES FROM 2 OF THE BST OORTHOPODS AROUND, AND STILL, I HURT TERRIBLY. MY YOUNGER BROTHER HADBACK PROBLEMS BUT HUNG IN ERE AND TOOK PT, AND HIGHLY RECOMMENDS TORIBIN. SPELLING MIGHHT BE WRONG,, ANYWASY IT IS AN NONAREROIDAL ANTI INFLAMITORY, ,SO I AAMN GOING O ASK MY DOC ABOUT THAT. GOOD LUCK

  10. By ellen on Mar 22, 2009 | Reply

    On January 18th I felt pain on my lower back all the way dowm to my ankle. I went to my doctor and without checking me up he told me that i have siatica. But it is very painful every day and the pain is unbearable. Last March 18th I had a CT scan and they found out that I have a spinal stenosis. I want to know if this is a serious condition that I have to take care of ASAP.

  11. By Jon McClendon on Mar 23, 2009 | Reply

    I have been diagnosed w/ spinal stenosis and will have surgery next month; spinal fusion and a lumbar laminectomy. My surgeon says I should expect a 80-90% improvement.I am curious if anyone else has had the same surgery?

  12. By Daniel Lumpkin on Mar 28, 2009 | Reply

    I’ve been diagnosed with the same thing(spinal stenosis), and have just had my first epidural shot and scheduled to have another in two weeks. It’s been 4 days since the shot and I still feel pain in my back, buttocks and even in my leg, however the pain isn’t as severe.
    I really don’t have an answer but just wanted some feedback from anybody who knows, has experience or information about this diagnosis.
    What are some other options for treatment?

  13. By shannon on Apr 6, 2009 | Reply

    i have lower lumbar spinal stenosis. I have had the steroid injections and it seem worse than before. Iam almost at the point of not being able to walk. My doctor wants to do surgery I cannot afford. What happens if I have to leave it untreated? Can Anyone tell me where to go for more info and help?

  14. By shannon on Apr 6, 2009 | Reply

    Daniel
    I had the spinal injectionsand the problem became worse after the injections. I was told my only other option was surgery. Iam trying to find other options. good luck!

  15. By Sylvia on Apr 8, 2009 | Reply

    I have severe spian stenosis I nkow how much pain it causes I have pain all the time I take meds even use a rens unit what I want to know is will it cause other problems aside from pain and unable to walk or stand what else should I be aware of I am not incintinent thank God but will it cause dizzy spells loss of balance? please let me know. I have no insurance and am too young for medicare cant get disability please give me more info.

  16. By Sylvia on Apr 8, 2009 | Reply

    I have severe spinal stenosis I know how much pain it causes I have pain all the time I take meds even use a tens unit what I want to know is will it cause other problems aside from pain and unable to walk or stand what else should I be aware of I am not incontinent thank God but will it cause dizzy spells loss of balance? please let me know. I have no insurance and am too young for medicare cant get disability please give me more info.

  17. By shannon on Apr 9, 2009 | Reply

    Im only 39 yrs old and Iam having some incontinence from the spinal stenosis. I lost my insurance after I couldnt do my job anymore. Iam a nursing assistant. Iam praying that I can get disability. Its funny that Ive spent 20 yrs. of my life taking care of other people. Now I can barely take care of myself and cant get the medical attention I need.

  18. By Yvonne on Apr 13, 2009 | Reply

    Need info to make a decision re: Laminectomy.
    for someone 80+ someone who has had or knows someone who has had this procedure. The outcome? How they fared? Any aftereffects of the surgery or anesthesia??

  19. By 'jake on May 3, 2009 | Reply

    I have many of the conditions from other commenter’s. Unfortunately this appears to be a pure comment log. There are no ‘replies’ to these people ‘crying_for_help. It would be nice if someone would read these and at least responded with some reference sites. The main page for this comment log has great information about the Lumbar Stenosis problem, but little help for getting rid of the problem. I have tried the ‘Medicine/Pain relief’ route and am investigating the ‘Alternative’ and ‘Minimal Invasive Spinal Surgery’ possibilities.

    I would suggest to anyone with this spinal problem see a Pain Management Doctor and then a Neurosurgeon to discuss the options. Most Medical Clinics do not have the ‘Alternative’ services available, so you may have to go outside Medicare and Hospital services to get help.

    This in no way recommends any medical treatment or diagnosis. I am a sufferer and these are ways I am using to find a way to get rid of the pain, not hide it.

  20. By Nissa on May 19, 2009 | Reply

    My grandmother, who is 68, was diagnosed with severe spinal stenosis only a few months ago. But over the past year she has had severe pain in her back, and numbness and tingling in her arms and hands and legs, to the point where she cannot grip things well enough to pick them up or hold on to anything firmly. She can hardly type, write, pick up the phone or even do housework or cook. She now has difficulty walking and has very little control of her legs (movement). She has to use her hip weight to kick her legs forward to take steps, so she is now using a fancy purple walker with a drop down seat so she can sit when she has back pain. Additionally she has intense muscle spasms, which she says feels like her muscles are stretching like a cat does. Sometimes even if she coughs it will cause a spasm from her neck all the way down to her feet, bringing her to her tip toes. She is going in for a surgery (nerou surgery) from her neck, where they will also place a small rod into her spine. The surgery is tomorrow (05-20-09), and she is told that there is no guarantee she will regain any of her mobility which has already been lost due to nerve damage, however some who have had the surgery have regained some mobility. The surgery is only to discontinue further, pain and damage. If you have been diagnosed with Stenosis you may consider having the surgery before it gets too bad, or you may not regain what mobility and nerve damage has already occurred. My grandmother now has to move to a new house that does not have stairs, and is anticipating having a caregiver come in to help out with housework and cooking. Lets just hope she does regain her mobility and is able to grab/grip with her hands after the surgery so she doesn’t have to have a caregiver.

  21. By Nissa on May 19, 2009 | Reply

    I forgot to add that my grandma does have balance problems also. I don’t recall her saying she gets dizzy but definitely feels off balance. I also forgot that she has spoken to several different surgeons regarding the best procedure. She spoke to an Orthopedic surgeon and alternative options such as chiropractic or even acupuncture, but for the best over-all results was recommended to the neurosurgeon (recommended by her orthopedic surgeon). I will bookmark this page and give an update of here results as soon as she starts improving. She is to be in the hospital for recovery for about 4-5 days, and the healing will be about 2-3 weeks.

  22. By Shirley Madden on May 27, 2009 | Reply

    I’ve had spinal stenosis for about 10 years now. I have tried the injections and they work ok, but the thing that has helped me the most is a prescription of Nerotin. It’s normally used to treat seizures but my doctor said that it blocks signals from your nerves and should help with the pain. You can take it up to three times a day, but it can make you sleepy. I take it at night before I go to bed and only during the day if I over do it and need too.

  23. By Patrick Foote on Jun 7, 2009 | Reply

    I have created a website dedicated to information on spinal stenosis (www.stenosis-spinal.com). I work for a medical facility that diagnoses and treats problems of the neck and back and would like to use my experience in this field to educate people who have debilitating back and neck problems.

  24. By precious dry on Jun 9, 2009 | Reply

    my dr. wants me 2 consider having a procedure called RACZ,saline solution injection 4 my spinal stenosis. cant find anything on internet about it. what is she talking about? i already hav done the epidurals, facets,and nerve blocks.

  25. By Stu on Jun 17, 2009 | Reply

    Jake:agree with your comment, that noone replies. I have anklyosing spondelitis and severe lumar stenosis. All started while in the Marine Corps 40 plus years ago.Been all the routes you mentioned and ran across the mimimal evasive surgury today on the web. I havent chased it down yet but it sounds like it is done in very few locations. Have you had any luck finding any. Been with this crap for all these years and at 71 can still shoot in the mid 80’s when i can walk, which hasnt been since oct last yr. Looking forward to hear from you. Thanks Stu

  26. By Stu on Jun 17, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Nissa:Am old like your grandma,71. Was diagnosed with anklyosing spondilitis while in the Marine corps at age 23 and been told for years that i also have stenosis, but recently have been told it is severe lumbar stenosis. Have been through all the treatments and medication and have been referred to a neuro surgeon by my neuro guy. Like your grandmother, have severe pain and swellin in both legs feet and hands. Have fallen several times , lose balance and dizzy most of the time. In the last few years walking has gotten tougher, feet seem to point in and out and have to force the feet forward and the ball of my feet hit the ground rather like i have flippers on. Have read today about non invasive surgury, have you heard of it. Looking forwar to hearing from you. Hope Grandma did ok. Thanks Stu

  27. By erma on Jun 18, 2009 | Reply

    audrey i am 56 years old and have spinal stenosis i have had many, many injection to no availe of pain relief iam now fixing to have spinal c t scan to see if there is any disk problems. my symptons are exactly the same as yours. i don’t know yet what the outcome will be.
    have you had a scan or mri done?

  28. By wanda on Jul 5, 2009 | Reply

    i have a friend who had saline injections and they worked great for about 3yrs. she went to mayo in rodchester . I dont know who she saw .

  29. By Dee C on Jul 10, 2009 | Reply

    I had a procedure in 2005 called Anterior Cervical Diskectomy Fusion (ACDF). Before this procedure I was in pain because it was a herniated disk at C5-6 caused by being rear ended in auto. I had other procedures from Chiropractors, pain centers and Therapy and nothing was working. Now 4 years later I am in pain again and find that I have Spondylosis and Stenosis which I did not have before. Now they say it is too dangerous to operate on the disk above and below the C5-6 and they areridging and bulging. I am now going to have to seek help for the pain which I am enduring everyday. My advice is not to be operated on until you have all the information and have been seen by more than one orthopedic doctor.

  30. By JESSICA on Jul 20, 2009 | Reply

    HAD SPINAL FUSION IN APRIL BEFORE THAT COULD HARDLY WALK FROM PAIN IN RIGHT LEG AFTER SURGERY HAVE HAD NO PAIN

  31. By liz on Aug 13, 2009 | Reply

    I am having surgery in Dec because I have cervical mylopopthy in my C-3,C-4 disc’s and now I have developed stenosis and I am very scared to do this.I was wondering if anyone has had this procedure done and how you are now?Also I wanted details on the procedure.Thank-you

  32. By Chad R Erickson on Aug 26, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Robert Tucker.

    We have two things in common. I am a Land Surveyor and have Lubar spinal stenosis. The pain in my lower back and right leg started three weeks ago and I haven’t been able to survey since. From these comments it looks like I have a lot to look forward too! But, like you said, I have seen a lot of the mountains of Idaho in my career. Hope I can get this under control but it is damn hard to find a doctor who cares or knows anything, and the specialists have a three week wait before you can get the first appointment. In the meantime I’ve turned into a hypocondriac, suspecting that I have every ailment that pops up on the internet.

    For instance, eight weeks ago I stepped out my back door and stepped in some fresh goose poop. Two weeks later I developed a wild case of “athlete’s foot” at the same point on my toes. At the same time as the back pains appeared I got a fresh blow up of the ahlete’s foot, complete with purple skin. So tonight I think I have a form of spinal menigitus.

    My sympathay to those who have suffered this pain and uncertainty for years and years.

  33. By Annette Vandersteen on Sep 5, 2009 | Reply

    I just want everybody to know how lonely this is to be in so much pain. I was finally diagnosed with spinal stenosis this month after a 9 month battle of pain. I have a bulging disc that apparently makes things a bit worse and hard for some doctors to decide what it was. I will complete my third nerve block shot this week and then I will schedule surgery. I need a life. I have a difficult time sitting. Strange that most people don’t mention this as a complaint. But I can’t sit, or stand to long. Mornings are terrible after getting out of bed. Sharp pain for hours. Yes I am looking forward to surgery.

  34. By Annette Vandersteen on Sep 5, 2009 | Reply

    I forget to mention. I agree with the person that mentioned go to a Pain Management Doctor. I didn’t find one until just recently. Neurosurgeons have too long of a wait time to see you. They actually can help you get in sooner if they think your case is severe enough. Anyway, they will give you some comfort. Nothing else much has.

  35. By m greene on Sep 17, 2009 | Reply

    Boy – this sounds exactly the same as I have been suffering for some years – Especially the “cart”.

  36. By Kathy on Sep 24, 2009 | Reply

    I,m 58 years old, have had Rheumatoid Arthritis for 28 years and back pain for many years caused by spurs and the RA. Last October I had my right knee replaced` (both legs where bend out ay the knees) Since the surgery, I developed horrrible back pain and numbness down the back of my legs starting above the buttock. I had CT and EMG and was diagnosed with severe spinal stenosis and scoliosis of the lumbar area. I am now on disability. I went to a Pain Management clinic and had two epidural injections which gave fabulous pain relief for 4 DAYS only, each time. I have see a neurosurgeon and he diacouraged surgery at this time. My family doctor ordered PT which helped with the pain in my back and cut the pain in my legs in half(sill numb). Four weeks later, I woke up one morning and my left foot is completely numb and dropping.This is the leg that needs the knee replaced and is almost at a 45 degree angle and very painful. My daughter could barely get me down the stairs,(we live in a quad level house)out of the house and to the family doctor. He sent me back to the neurosurgeon and he wants to do a decompression and lamenectomy of the L3-5 and S2. He also said I was a poor canidate for surgery because of my knee, RA, and that I’m prone to infections.I said I need to think about this.
    I also can only walk with the help of a walker that has the wheels and seat. I have trouble with bowel movements and urination. I have to bear down to the point of passing out. This is embarassing to talk about, but I figure someone else my be having this same problem. I have learned to use a stool softener/laxative, drinl plenty of liquids and eat a lot of veg/fruits.I take oxycotin for my RA pain so that doesn’t help that situation.
    I will encourage people to try the PT for the back pain. The exercises are very simple and I was told to do everyday of my life.
    I’m so glad I found this web page.I feel so isolated and lonely. I’m stuck in the family room on the first floor. I went from working full-time and being very involved to someone sitting in a recliner being waited on hand and foot. I also crochet, do puzzles and read.
    Has anyone has surgery that has brought back a numb foot? I need my knee replaced but with the numbness, would never be able to do thr therapy that’s needed after surgery.

  37. By Brenda on Sep 24, 2009 | Reply

    I have been diagnosed with lumber spinal stenosis and I am 45 years old and the bottom line is I am scared of will happen to me will I need surgery or what I will not endure epidurals or any other injections. Any information will help

  38. By Carolyn on Oct 7, 2009 | Reply

    I’m 57 years old and will be going through my 4th back surgery next week. The last one I had 10 years ago, it was a spinal fusion in the lower back, now I have Stenosis right above the fusion. Sooo the Doctor is going to remove some bone, do another fusion(he has to remove 2 of the screws from the first one to add the second one). I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t scared to death, but I trust my Doctor, and I will be so glad to get rid of this pain. Good luck to ALL

  39. By Tammy Todd on Oct 16, 2009 | Reply

    I am 47 and just found out I have narrow spine. I also have CMT type 1&2, I don’t know if it has anything to do with this or not. I wonder as I have had CMT ,or they found it when I was 29. I have bad pain in my left hip and it goes down my left leg. If someone might know if this connects to CMT please let me know. I feel for you all that have back pain. Thank you for reading and listening.

  40. By Toni Campbell on Oct 19, 2009 | Reply

    I have had this procedure done by one the best dr’s I know . After sufferring horrofying pain and long use of countless pain meds for 16 and half months , Dr. Tariq Javed did my surjery and that same day I wanted to get up and dance . There was some nerve damage and stenosis with the pian ,burning ,the whole nine yards , I could’nt take the med effects so I had the spinal cord stimulator put in for a trial , by golly , I wish I had done it soooooner . Dr. Javed is a heaven send … He is located in Marietta and Woodstock Ga. ( 770-422-0444 ) , give him a call you won’t regret it. The happy patient of an excellent team of DOCTOR’S … I must also mention Dr. Hurd of the PainSolution of Ga. what a TEAM…. They have fixed my problem to the point where I feel like I want live again , the pian use to be so baaaaadd , I was begging God to take my life . Now, I Thank Him for my LIFE…. and my DOCTOR’S ……. MRS. TONI CAMPBELL……I truely thank GOD for these DOCTOR’S who really care about their patients……

  41. By rieda levin on Nov 7, 2009 | Reply

    about a week ago, I had an epidural for the pain I was suffering due to lumbar spinal stenosis. While I am experiencing some relief, I still have pain although now it is bearable (versus unbearable) However, now I am experiencing pain in the middle of my spine as well as the lower portion. Is there a way to halt the progression?

  42. By Deborah Carter on Nov 7, 2009 | Reply

    I have had 3 surgerys and hardware replaced with the third surgery. I felt ok for a while and the pain was not as bad; this was in 2004. I have chronic pain in my lower back, both legs and have taken just about every medication known to man. I deffinately understand your pain! I have to work in pain and take meds and hope I can function properly; especially since I work as a casemanager for individuals with disabilities. I hope someone comes up with a way to measure our PAIN; as well as a medication that works.

  43. By jennifer on Dec 31, 2009 | Reply

    hi, my name is jenn, and 4 and a half years ago i was diagnoised with severe spinal stenosis, i am 44 today, have 2 kids, 15 and 11, had two jobs, don’t drive, don’t bus it to work, but walk 1/2 hour to work and home ,, sometimes twice, sometimes 4 times a day,, depending on the double shifts,, on mt feet all day, and i mean all day from 6 am… till 1 am the next…household jobs, washing floors on hands and knees,,,(painful) but i also have ocd so it has to be done that way… 3 level house… climbing stairs up and down all day,, etc..etc… i was diagnosed 4 years ago with this,,, and fibromayagia… i have 5 years till my doctor told me i would be crippled… i have lost 35 pounds,, now weigh 132lbs,, and probably still losing,,, from all the walking i do,,jobs,, kids.. house etc..every day is a great day,, when i can put my feet on the floor and stand up… i am an inspriation to everyone i talk too,,, and they see me,, my family ,,, my co-workers..and my neigbours… ya i have bad days when the weather is cold, damp,, or dry,,, when u live in canada,, u never know…lol…i am on athrotect 500 for the pain,,, i think i am becoming amune to it somedays are horrid,, but when you have spinal stenosis, fybromyagia,, and arthritis thoughtout your body at the young age of 40 and have indeared it through… i know others can as well…i don’t know if it(pain) is the fibro, or the arthritis, or something else… but when i wake up in the morning and can get out of bed weither i want to or not,,, i do it for my kids… and then myself… i have to be strong for everyone else,,, and not to feel sorry for me,, i don’t want that from anyone..so i do it every day… i have one more year according to my doctor till i am cripplied… i won’t take it… without a fight…and fight till the end i will do!!! if anyone needs to talk please feel free to reach me at my e-mail motherwolf1@live.com… stay strong,,, stay safe…

  44. By Lorraine on Jan 1, 2010 | Reply

    Hi,
    I am in the same position as you, sitting is most uncomfortable, I am 67 and have spinal arthritis, degen disc disease and carpal tunnel for many years now, worked 21 yrs at a comp with it and now retired, I walk everywhere and managed to tolerate those bad days in between, the worst thing I hated doing was making my bed, all that bending, I am never seen until mid afternoon as mornings I am so stiff and have to wait for body to pull together, would you care to correspond, not many people understand, they tell me I look so good and I know that they wonder why some days I limp and other days I can breeze along. Take care friend

  45. By Harold Williams on Jan 11, 2010 | Reply

    I have spinal stenosis for several years. I finally started epidural injections last January 2009. It helped for a little while. I had another injection in July 2009. It helped for awhile. In October 2009, I had a transforaminal nerve block. It really helped but here it is January 2010 and the pains have come back. Not as severe where I can’t tolerate it but I am wondering how many of these you can have (and insurance pay for it) before you have to give up and have surgery. I am probably going to call my doctor and schedule another nerve block shot within a month.

  46. By Donald on Jan 18, 2010 | Reply

    Read Nissa’s report on her grandmother’s plans to consult a neuro-surgeon most interesting. I suffer from similar symptoms and have an appointment with a neuro-surgeon this week having been referred by an orthopaedic surgeon. I am lookig forward to read Nissa’s up to date comments on her grandmother’s (hopefully) recovery.

  47. By Dorothy on Feb 1, 2010 | Reply

    This reply is to Robert Tucker. To whoever wrote the comment, the one with Parkinsons Disease, I could not help see through all the pain to a lingering sense of Humour and I wish I could cultivate that in my own situation. It is wonderful to read about a person who is in so much pain and yet has held on to their sense of humour. There are far too many of us who suffer from crippling diseases who either withdraw or are very outspoken about their pain to the point where people “turn them off.”

    Your seem very grateful for the time you were able to get around with your legs without too much difficulty. So am I. I am so grateful NOW, but I wish I had taken better care of myself in my younger days. I am 63. The pain is sort of an extension of myself these days, it never goes away and I need a walker to lean on to get around. I never thought I would need something like that until I was, perhaps, in my 70’s as I still feel pretty young inside! Your log cabin sounds wonderful, but I am not sure I like your ending, or maybe, hopefully, I misunderstood it. with love, Dorothy

  48. By Dorothy on Feb 1, 2010 | Reply

    To John McClendon : My Son, Christopher, has had this operation done. It helped with the pain which was so bad he was doubled over, his age 32 yrs old??? He had an accident at work 2 yrs ago and was immediately taken to the hospital, but no follow up work with any Specialist was offered, until he could no longer go to work or do much else. The operation where the implanted a titanium disc offered relief for about 3 to 4 months, but since then it has become increasingly difficult again to get around. He is also back to a life of terrible pain. Think quite a lot before you have this operation. Over here in Canada they go in through the front to get to the spine, I dont know why? but it has left him with a very long fierce looking scar. That would not be a concern if the operation and the disc implant would have worked but it didnt, I am afraid. My heart grieves for my dear son every day, especially since he has a wife who is working 2 jobs, and two young children to take care of…..Dorothy

  49. By rachel on Feb 2, 2010 | Reply

    can anyone help ive been out of work for 8 yrs now it started with back pain but like a lot of you ive been reading i suffer all symptoms as well hot from the inside out pins and needles numbness hands down to finger tips down my right leg i can barley walk i use crutches on a day when i walk round doing my weekley shop my daughter has to help me now some days i have to use the wheelchair in the shop they provide them making the bed is agony i hover on all fours i cant stoop for more than a minuite i brought a dish washer so i dont have to stand for to long im on so many different tablets i rattle my doc has told me ive got cronic back pain ive had no mir-mri-xrays IM 44 YRS OLD my 82 yr old neighbour brings my rubbish bin in and walks like a 44 yr old should

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