Many people deal with spinal stenosis at some point in their lives. This is a condition that occurs when the spinal canal is narrowed, and it can occur in any area of the spine. Most commonly, it occurs in the low back or neck, but it can also occur at several areas in the spine at one time. In some cases, this problem can have some serious consequences, so it is important that you know the spinal stenosis symptoms. Here is a closer look at some symptoms to watch out for and if you notice them, it’s a good idea to see a physician.
Sometimes There are No Symptoms
When it comes to spinal stenosis symptoms, you’ll find that in many cases there are no symptoms present. In fact, many people have x-rays that show they have spinal stenosis, but they may not be showing any symptoms at all. In some cases, the stenosis is not bad enough to start compressing any nerves or the spinal cord. Over time though, symptoms may start showing up if the narrowing areas start putting pressure on the cauda equine, the nerve roots, or your spinal cord.
Common Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis
The specific symptoms that you deal with may depend on which area of the spine is affected by this problem. However, there are some common spinal stenosis symptoms that may occur. Here are several common symptoms to watch out for if you think you may be dealing with this problem.
- Radiating Pain – One of the main spinal stenosis symptoms that people experience is known as radiating pain. This is pain that radiates through your neck and shoulders or if the lower back is affected, it may radiate through your hips and your back. You may also deal with pain that radiates into your legs or your arm as well.
- Leg Cramps – Another of the common spinal stenosis symptoms is known as leg cramps. Sometimes this problem may end up pinching some of the nerves in the back, which can cause the legs to hurt and start cramping. In many cases, this cramping pain gets worse when you are standing or walking for a period of time.
- Problems with Balance – Some people notice that they have problems with their balance, another of the spinal stenosis symptoms. The sense of balance may be affected when there is pressure on the vertebrae in the neck. You may feel off center, you may trip easily, or you may even fall. These are all symptoms of stenosis and you need to be especially careful if you are having balance problems so you don’t fall and injure yourself further.
- Numbness – Numbness is very common in those dealing with spinal stenosis. You may have numbness in your hands, arms, your legs, or your feet. Not only does numbness occur, but often you may notice a tingling in these areas or a burning sensation that occurs. These are also common spinal stenosis symptoms.
- Weakness – Along with the numbness that many people experience, you may end up dealing with weakness in your limbs as well. Often it affects the legs or arms and can occur at any time.
Symptoms of Severe Spinal Stenosis
Sometimes if you are dealing with spinal stenosis symptoms, over time they will continue to get worse. Some of these symptoms may be severe and they should definitely be taken care of immediately.
- Incontinence – In very serious cases, sometimes one of the spinal stenosis symptoms may be incontinence. Sometimes the nerves that control the bowels and the bladder can end up being compressed. This can cause incontinence to occur.
- Difficulty Having Sexual Intercourse – Severe cases may end up causing difficulty having sexual intercourse as well. If you are having this problem, you may have a severe form of spinal stenosis.
- Weakness, Pain, or Loss of Feeling in the Legs – If you deal with weakness, pain, or the loss of feeling in just one or both of your legs, this is a serious symptom as well that may mean you have a severe problem.
If you have any of the common symptoms, it is a good idea to see a doctor. However, if you are dealing with severe spinal stenosis symptoms, then you need to talk to your physician immediately. Make sure you get in touch with a doctor and get help right away before the symptoms get even worse, causing complications.