Testing for a Spinal Stenosis Diagnosis
It's important that a proper spinal stenosis diagnosis be confirmed by a doctor or spine specialist so that the appropriate treatments can be recommended. Stenosis, or the narrowing of the spinal canal, often becomes problematic if bone material or intervertebral disc tissue creates a blockage within the spinal canal. Symptoms of localized pain and radiating weakness, numbness, tingling, and pain may arise if the blockage compresses the spinal cord or its nerve roots. If you believe you are dealing with spinal stenosis, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.
Consulting with Your Doctor
Your doctor or spine specialist can perform several tests and exams to ascertain a spinal stenosis diagnosis. He or she may use some or all of the following methods to properly diagnose the condition:
- Taking your medical history - to understand your overall physical and mental health, to document the symptoms you are experiencing, and to discuss potential causes of spinal stenosis. You may also be asked if any members of your family have suffered from spinal conditions.
- Performing a physical exam - to test your range of motion, areas of discomfort, and muscle reflexes.
- Testing blood - to assist in ruling out infections or diseases as possible causes of pain.
- Ordering X-rays - to search an image of the spine for any indication of spinal canal narrowing, or evidence of fractures or other abnormalities or injuries.
- Ordering MRI or CT scans - to provide a more detailed look at the spinal canal, surrounding anatomical elements, and soft tissues.
After a Diagnosis
After your doctor has confirmed a spinal stenosis diagnosis, he or she will likely recommend that you start a regimen of conservative (non-surgical) treatments. These might include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), back or neck braces, physical therapy, hot/cold compress therapy, and corticosteroid spinal injections, among others. Only if several weeks or months of conservative treatments have proven ineffective, your doctor may then ask you to consider surgery. |
