What Are the Dangers of Spinal Canal Stenosis?

Spinal canal stenosis refers to the narrowing of the area around the spinal cord. It can occur with normal aging. The condition can cause health problems including serious pain, paralysis, limited mobility and issues with incontinence.

Paralysis

• If the space around the spinal canal in the neck becomes too narrow, pressure on spinal cord can cause paralysis.

Pain

• Spinal canal stenosis can cause pain and cramping in your back and neck. Pain could also spread down your buttock, leg, shoulders and arms.

Limited Mobility

• Spinal canal stenosis can make standing straight or walking painful. It can also cause numbness in your leg or interfere with your sense of balance, which can make walking difficult.

Incontinence

• Spinal stenosis can cause difficulty urinating or moving the bowels. You may also experience a loss of urinary or bowel continence.

Considerations

• For mild cases, non-invasive treatment can help with the symptoms of spinal canal stenosis. If your symptoms are dangerous or lower your quality of life, you could need surgery in order to correct the condition.