Do you have spinal column narrowing (stenosis), and associated pain?

I've been suffering with this condition for about the last 15 years. I've seen multiple neurologists and pain management specialists, have tried physical therapy, all kinds of medication, injections, and treatments. Just recently had a new MRI and consult with a new neurologist only to be told there was nothing he could do for me. If you have pain in your legs (I don't) there's the possibility surgery might help. Injections help some people but not me. I can't stand more than about 5 minutes, then it get a feeling across my lower back like a blood pressure cuff is getting tighter and tighter until I want to scream. When I sit, the pain instantly disappears.

This condition has caused me to have to limit my activities to things I can do without much standing. I can no longer take walks, cruise the mall or browse arts & crafts shows. I've given up the idea of seeing Europe or Machu Pinchu. It's very difficult to get much done in the house or yard as I'm constantly having to stop and sit. Because my ability to clean house is limited I no longer invite guests here. I am involved in dog rescue but mostly just volunteer for transport duty and fostering.

I do have a mobility scooter which allows me to get out in the neighborhood. I have four big dogs and "walk" them using the scooter. They adapt to this type of exercise very easily. I can disassemble my scooter and take it with me but, although it's one of the lighter ones, I have trouble lifting the heaviest piece. It's such a hassle lifting and assembling it that I usually don't bother.

I hope your stenosis is not as severe as mine and you are more mobile. There are many treatments that should be attempted, hoping one will give some relief. Good luck to you.

Although I don't feel your pain my husband sure does. He has suffered for years with spinal stenosis and has had numerous spinal surgeries. Along with this he was diagnosis with Chiari Malformation. You may want to ask your neurosurgeon if he can check you for this. My understanding is that Chiari goes hand and hand with stenosis. He has gotten major relief once the Chiara was treated. He still is in pain but it able to treat it with meds and a great attitude.

I know everyone is different but I thought I would put it out there as you sound just like my husband.

Hopefully you can find some relief.

I had this condition for 3 years while my PCP told me continuously that I was a hypochondriac. Finally, when he refused to give me a referral to an ortho doctor I decided I would pay for it myself if I had to and made an appt -- he diagnosed my back problem immediately and sent me to a spinal surgeon. I had the surgery - woke up pain free in the recovery room and have been pain free since - 11 years. However , due to waiting so long to get the surgery, I have nerve damage and some residual weakness in my rt leg and foot.I should have sued that PCP.

I am curious WHY people's doctors have said no surgery for this as that is really the only way to cure it. Spinal stenosis is a growth of bony material narrowing the channel where the nerve is and causing the pain. Clearly, the simple solution is surgery to remove those growths.

My mother who is 83 had this surgery a year ago and her quality of life has been greatly improved. She still has some pain from a place that is narrowing in her upper back but the surgery she had on her lower was very successful and she made a quick recovery especially considering her age.

Thanks for the thoughts, so far. I've always been healthy as a horse and string as an ox, so I am having a hard time coming to terms with it. I will continue my research and continue to consult with my doctor about further treatment options. My source of pain runs primarily down my right leg and the simple act of walking hurts. The things I love - keeping my house and working in the garden, taking exercise classes, long walks, have to be limited. Acceptance is the first step, I guess.

Thanks for the info and kind words. Good luck to all.

On 10/17/2014 Sweetbay magnolia said:

Thanks for the thoughts, so far. I've always been healthy as a horse and string as an ox, so I am having a hard time coming to terms with it. I will continue my research and continue to consult with my doctor about further treatment options. My source of pain runs primarily down my right leg and the simple act of walking hurts. The things I love - keeping my house and working in the garden, taking exercise classes, long walks, have to be limited. Acceptance is the first step, I guess.

Thanks for the info and kind words. Good luck to all.

Again I ask -- why no surgery? Are you even aware what spinal stenosis is ?