5 Signs That You Need to See a Doctor for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Aging causes our bodies to go through many changes, and our spines are no exception. Often, the aging process leads to a degeneration of the vertebrae, discs, muscles and ligaments that make up our spinal column. Unfortunately, these changes can lead to a condition called spinal stenosis.

The word “stenosis” actually derives from the Greek word that means “choking.” With lumbar spinal stenosis, the nerves in the lower back are choked, causing leg pain and other uncomfortable symptoms.

If you are concerned about your lower back pain, and you fear that you have developed lumbar spinal stenosis, please do not hesitate to get in touch with Dr. Sharma. The sooner you are diagnosed, the sooner your treatment can begin – leading to less pain and a healthier spine.

Here are five signs that you need to see a doctor now:

1. You have leg pain that is accompanied by persistent weakness, tingling, or numbness of any part of your leg from the buttock to the foot.

2. Your lower back pain is accompanied by vomiting, fever, or both.

3. You are experiencing leg pain with weakness or numbness that comes and goes, or tingling that lasts longer than one week.

4. You have lost control of your bladder or bowels.

5. You are having significant back pain that does not improve, or that gets worse over a period of two weeks.

Typically, lumbar spinal stenosis gradually gets worse over a period of months or years. If you have the above symptoms that come on suddenly, please seek medical help immediately, as they may be indicative of another serious condition.

Image courtesy of Core Walking