Diagnosis of Spinal Stenosis

Diagnosis of spinal stenosis will start with a physical exam and a written 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 tissue as well as bone.

After reviewing all diagnostic tests and interviewing the patient for all the facts about the severity of the symptoms, the doctor will make a recommendation for treatment. A good doctor will always start with the most conservative treatments available.

Recommendation for Stenosis Diagnosis

I would recommend getting a second or third opinion after a diagnosis of spinal stenosis. It is true that you might have this condition, but there is a good chance that it is not the problem causing your actual pain. It would be a terrible waste of time, pain, 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.

Diagnosis of Spinal Stenosis to Home page 6/11/06 Revised 5/28/07