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Spinal Stenosis Symptoms and Signs
Symptoms of spinal stenosis often begin with non-acute pain that comes and goes, gradually the pain stays for longer periods of time and in many patients, eventually turns chronic. When pain from spinal stenosis first begins patients may find relief from rest, sitting or lying down and flexing forward. As pain continues for longer periods of time patients must find other ways to relieve their pain. As the symptoms of spinal stenosis become more clear and when pain becomes unbearable patients should seek out expert medical help. Typically doctors use either an MRI or CT Scan to assist in the diagnose spinal stenosis.
Common symptoms of Spinal Stenosis include:
- Dull to severe aching pain in the lower back or buttocks when walking or other activities.
- Pain radiates into one or both thighs and legs (60% bilateral pain).
- Numbness, weakness or paraesthesia involving the lower extremities.
- Symptoms relieved by bending forward, sitting or lying down.
- Pain relievers tend to be ineffective
- Decreased endurance in physical activities
If any of the following symptoms sound familiar a visit to your doctor may be in order. Your physician may order an MRI or CTscan to confirm and diagnosis the severity of spinal stenosis conditions in the back and neck.
