What are the Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis?

Just because there’s evidence of spinal stenosis on a CT scan or MRI doesn’t necessarily mean you’re experiencing symptoms. However, there could come a point when you develop symptoms, as this condition has the potential to worsen over time.

You can have spinal stenosis in two places: the cervical spine (neck) and the lumbar spine (lower back). The symptoms vary depending on the type of spinal stenosis.

Here’s what you may experience with spinal stenosis of the cervical spine:

•    Tingling and/or numbness in the foot, leg, arm, and/or hand
•    Neck pain
•    Difficulty balancing and walking
•    Weakness in the foot, leg, arm, and/or hand

Spinal stenosis of the lumbar spine may cause:

•    Back pain
•    Tingling and/or numbness in a foot or leg
•    Weakness in a foot and/or leg
•    Cramping and/or pain in one or both legs when walking or standing for an extended period of time

As noted above, these symptoms have the potential to worsen over time. So, early on you may be able to manage the symptoms on your own, but soon enough they could begin to affect the way you live your life.

If you suspect spinal stenosis, don’t hesitate to seek a medical diagnosis. This is the first step in treating the issue in hopes of finding full relief.

Virginia Spine Specialists is an award-winning, minimally invasive spinal care practice with locations in Fredericksburg, VA and Manassas, VA. We also serve these Northern and Central Virginia locations: Haymarket, Gainesville, Culpepper, Front Royal, Spotsylvania, Stafford, Colonial Beach, Tappahannock and Lake Anna.