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Diagnosis of Spinal Stenosis
Diagnosis of spinal stenosis will start with a physical exam and patient history of the problem. If the symptoms point towards spinal stenosis as a possible cause of the problem,
x-rays
will usually be taken. It is common to perform additional imaging tests to increase the detail of the problem. MRI, CT Scan or Myelogram will all show far more detail than the original x-ray, since they can image soft tissues, as well as
vertebral
bone.
After reviewing all diagnostic tests and interviewing the patient for all the facts about the severity of the
stenosis symptoms,
the doctor will make a recommendation for treatment. A good doctor will always start with the most conservative treatments available. Beware of care providers who recommend
back surgery
early in the treatment regimen, as this option should be reserved as a last resort in virtually every case.Diagnosis of Spinal Stenosis AdviceI would recommend getting a second or third opinion after being diagnosed with spinal stenosis. It is true that you might demonstrate the structural signs of the condition, but there is a good chance that stenosis is not the problem causing your actual pain. It would be a terrible waste of time, money and effort to go through a treatment program designed for stenosis, just to discover that the pain is being caused by some other condition. Unfortunately, this occurs in quite a few instances. Stenosis is a condition that is often a scapegoat for unexplained back pain even when it is innocent of causing any symptoms. Do not be surprised if your stenosis pain is actually caused by some other physical or psychological reason.Remember... Spinal Stenosis is a normal part of the aging process. It can become problematic, but most often will not cause symptoms. Also remember that the diagnostic nocebo effect of this condition is very strong and might be the real reason why pain may begin or escalate after a positive diagnosis.
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