Warning signs and symptoms of Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a common condition that affects adults over 50 years old. Your spinal canal starts to narrow as a result of arthritis, and that puts pressure on the nerves that travel through the spine. This can cause not only back and neck pain, but also other problems, such as knee pain. Therefore, it’s important to know about the spinal stenosis symptoms and be aware, that it’s not always about back pain. Also, what you should know is that the symptoms of spinal stenosis may differ, depending on the affected part of your spine. For that reason, our spine specialist would like to explain and forewarn you of the signs and symptoms of spinal stenosis.
Here you can find out more information about spinal stenosis and spinal stenosis treatment in Palm Beach County.
1. Symptoms in the back
When spinal stenosis affects your lower back (lumbar spine), then you may experience:
- Back pain
- Numbness, stiffness or tingling in the leg or foot
- Weakness in the leg or foot
- Pain or cramps in one or both legs when you are walking or standing for a long period of time. However, the pain goes away when you rest.
2. Symptoms in the neck
If the affected nerves are located in the neck (cervical spinal stenosis), then the symptoms may include:
- Neck pain
- Weakness or numbness in the hands and/or arms
- Problems with walking and balance
3. Other more specific symptoms
Here are more specific symptoms, that may occur in severe cases. These include:
- Loss of bladder or bowel control (urinary urgency and incontinence),
- Drop foot, also known as foot drop, which is the inability to lift the front part of the foot, and dragging the toes along the ground while walking.
However, not everyone shows the spinal stenosis symptoms, even if the condition was diagnosed and proven on an MRI or CT scan. If you’re experiencing symptoms mentioned above, you should consider seeing a doctor.
Learn more about Fort Lauderdale Spine Surgeon
If you live in Broward County or Palm Beach County and are looking for an orthopedic doctor, Dr. Matthew Hepler is your best option. He is a Board Certified physician with years of experience in his specialty. He is also an expert in back surgery and spinal stenosis treatment in Palm Beach County.
If you have any questions or would like more information about Fort Lauderdale Spine Surgeon, please don’t hesitate to contact us, and schedule an appointment. We are here to make you stronger and healthier!
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
