Hi all! I'm completely new to this site and I stumbled across it after trying to find some research on young people who have Spinal Stenosis.
I'm only 24 years old and judging by my CT scans and symptoms, this is what I have. But I want to ask people who have actually had this problem some questions.
I actually found this problem after having problems with urination. It eventually got to a point to when I went to the bathroom, I felt like I needed to urinate, and nothing would happen. I wound up in the Emergency Room a few weeks ago, got a catheter, had some tests run, and they couldn't find anything.
I had a follow up appointment with my doctor and he ordered some scans. On the scans they said that a had a disc protrusion on my L4-L5 and that I had a narrowing tube in my back. I have no idea what that means. But they also said they think this problem could be what triggered my problems with my bladder and not being able to urinate.
First, does this even sound like Spinal Stenosis? If so, have you ever had a problem urinating because of it? Finally, what is the best recommended treatment for someone as young as me?
ANY Feedback or advice anyone can give will be so so appreciated. I'm a little concerned that this may be more serious than what I thought.
-Cast all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you.
-1 Peter 5:7
Since you are new to the wonderful world of back problems, you may want to make a little review of spinal anatomy. In addition to the forum, this site has many articles written by spinal specialists, videos, great diagrams, etc. Here's a link to disc herniation to get you going:
http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/herniated-disc/whats-a-herniated-...
http://www.spine-health.com/video/lumbar-herniated-disc-video-1
When a disc herniates, it often spills out into the central spinal canal which can cause nerve compression. Stenosis just means a "narrowing." Sometimes it can be caused by spinal arthritis, or space can be taken up by a bulging disc, bone spurs, etc.
A nerve compression can result in problems with the bladder or bowels. This can lead to permanent nerve damage, so it is the one symptom that is considered a medical emergency and one should seek treatment immediately. Please read through the following information so you are aware of "cauda equina syndrome."
http://www.spine-health.com/information/cauda-equina
This will give you some basic knowledge so you will be able to discuss your condition with your doctor...and will be able to participate in decisions regarding your treatment.
You are young but we have a number of your peers on the board who are dealing with a variety of spine injuries and problems. Please feel free to post often with your questions and concerns.
Gwennie
I have no medical training. Comments are based on personal experience and lots of research and reading.
PLIF @ L4-5 with Peek cage, rods and screws Jan 2008
Lami-foraminotomy L5-S1 Jan 2009
Fusion L3-S1 coming up -- maybe!!