Spinal Stenosis

[Nana434]

Just wondering if it's normal to develop spinal stenosis? I have disc bulg @ L 4 5 SI, ddd, Facet Arthropaty. Ended up in the ER X-ray show spinal stenosis. Any Advice PLZ!
I have very bad weakness in my legs more on the right. The PAIN is so bad can't walk much very scared PLZ HELP!!

[kittyluv1]

Lumbar spinal stenosis is the result of degenerative changes in the vertebrae and intervertebral discs that causes narrowing of the central canal (through which the spinal cord travels) and narrowing of the neural foramen (through which the spinal nerve roots travel).  If the narrowing is severe enough it will cause compression of the nerves and results in symptoms of pain with possible neurological symptoms such as tingling and numbness of the legs.
These degenerative changes occur as a result of the wear and tear on our spine as we age and can be advanced if any traumatic injury occurs.
Are the results of DDD and the disc bulges at L4-L5 and L5-S1 clinical findings from an MRI?  Generally, x-rays will show structural changes but an MRI is needed to determine the extent of nerve involvement.
The facets are the joints that connect the vertebrae of the spinal column to each other.
Facet arthropathy is a degenerative arthritis which causes bone spurs to develop at these joints producing pain when the bones rub together.
Based on what you have reported in your post, it appears that you would benefit from a referral to an orthopedic spine specialist who can determine what treatment options are appropriate for you.  Usually, unless there is significant nerve compression, conservative treatment with anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy and possible steroid injecctions is done to see if they will relieve the acute symptoms.
If you did not receive a referral at the time of your ER visit, you need to contact your primary care physician and initiate whatever process is needed to obtain this specialist consultation.
Try not to become overly anxious regarding this situation -- many people can have stenosis and have no symptoms.  The fact that you are experiencing such significant pain indicates the need for further evaluation.  Hopefully you can proceed in obtaining a referral without much delay.  If you have not had an MRI done, it probably is indicated and will be obtained prior to any decisions regarding more aggressive treatment.
Post again with an update and any additional questions/concerns you may have.
Best wishes ----

[selmaS]

Hi Nana,

I sent u a note- I didn't realize u had a post here. I too have spinal stinosis, mine is cervical.
I was told the DDD is something we will all get as we age , and some get it a bit sooner.
I am sure kittyluv1 can give a better answer on the stinosis.
Recently I was told I may if I am careful not have to do nething for my stinosis.

PT an help with the bulging disks. I would imagine it depends on the impingment u have.

I am so sorry u are having these issues on top of everything else.

ur friend
"selma"