Causes and Diagnoses for Spinal Stenosis

The term “stenosis” refers to “abnormal narrowing of a channel within the body,” and “spinal stenosis” refers to the narrowing of space in the spine and spinal canal, which results in pressure on the spinal cord and surrounding nerves.

This condition has a number of causes, including:

– Aging – Degenerative spinal stenosis, referring to the body’s deterioration as it ages, is often caused by bone spurs which move into the channel as they grow and begin to place pressure on the spinal cord. – Heredity – Some are predisposed to spinal stenosis when they are born with spinal canals that are too small for normal growth. – Herniated discs – An injury in one part of the spine, such as a herniated (bulging) disc, can result in pressure and stress on other parts of the spine and the spinal cord itself. – Spinal instability – Misaligned vertebrae, sometimes due to problems with ligaments or spinal discs, can potentially slip backward or forward and place pressure on the spinal cord. – Trauma – Traumatic injuries, such as from severe auto accidents and falls, can result in misaligned vertebrae or “burst fractures,” which occur when a piece of bone breaks off and stays within the spinal channel. Injury-induced spinal stenosis, as opposed to the previous causes, is instant rather than gradual and can cause immediate and severe pain.

In addition to obvious pain, some symptoms of spine and back problems include cramping, numbness, weakness, and “radiating pain” in the arms and legs. More severe compression of the spinal cord can also result in loss of bladder/bowel control and pain, numbness, and/or weakness in one or both legs.

Diagnosing spinal stenosis often begins with a series of questions from your health care provider, such as:

– When did the pain begin? – Does the pain radiate to other areas of the body? – Have you experienced a previous injury which may be associated with the pain? – Have you had problems with your bladder or bowel control? – Does your family have a history of osteoporosis? Next is usually a physical exam to assess motion in the neck and/or spine, pain, numbness, weakness, motor skills, and changes in reflexes or senses, followed by diagnostic tests, the most common of which are x-rays, CT scans, and MRIs.

If you or a loved one has suffered a serious back injury due to another’s negligence, contact 844 See Mike for a free consultation. We are a Chicago-based injury law firm representing individuals (and their families) who have suffered an injury in an accident. We will handle your case quickly and advise you every step of the way, and we will not hesitate to go to trial for you.

Lastly, 844 See Mike is not paid attorneys’ fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. You have nothing to risk when you hire us – only the opportunity to seek justice.