1. Community
  2. Brain and nerves
  3. Spinal Problems

Diagnosed Lumbar Spinal Stenosis at 21

Posted , 6 users are following.

SammieMaria
SammieMaria

Hi, I've suffered back pain most of my life and after a recent examination and x-ray my doctor has informed me I have lumber spinal stenosis. I'm quite considered that 1. it's a degenerating condition, and 2. there isn't any cures. Does this mean my health is set to deteriorate over time? Can I expect to be in a wheelchair before I turn 30? I feel my days have been numbered with so little information or solutions provided. I'd really appreciate hearing from others with the same problems.

0 likes, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • sandra90064
    sandra90064 SammieMaria

    Posted

    It depends on if it's severe but if it's not then physical therapy ,exercise and medications can help but of course if it doesn't help or doctor says it's getting worse then you should choose surgery before it's too late and there is permanent nerve damages like numbness weakness loss of sensation or worse paralysis.Other doctors just kept turning me away because of my age thinking I was looking for pain meds and finally after being referred to a neurologist my issues were so bad that if I had not had surgery ASAP I would surely be in a wheelchair.Thank God I had a great doctor and even then the MRI did not show everything,it was actually worse and my doctor said he never sawa spinal as bad as mine and he worked really hard in surgery and that he thought I would end up paralyzed.I waited three years and it was almost too late so take it from me do not let too much time past because yes it can be worse.
  • james15716
    james15716 SammieMaria

    Posted

    As long as you are careful and do not hurt yourself, you might be okay for a while. The main reason that I am in such bad shape and ended up in a wheelchair 7 years ago. This is because, i had the same issues as you do now but, the only difference is that, I have hurt my back 3 different times. Since 94 I have had lumbar surgery, an IDET, and more test than I care to remember. Soon I will be getting my 3rd SCS. I do not wish the last 22 years on anyone, I hope that you take care of yourself and you can avoid the mistakes that I have made.
  • Moveebuff1953
    Moveebuff1953 SammieMaria

    Posted

    Hi SamieMaria...sounds to me like you're feeling low about your future.  I totally get that.  The good news is that there are surgical procedurs that can reduce your pain.  The most important thing to do is have an MRI to find out exactly where the problem is.  Then get referred to the best surgeon & have surgery.  I had my L4 L5 fused 6 months ago & now I can walk again without pain.  I'm even playing frisbee. So there is hope & at your age you will recover quickly. 
  • Sandyuk91
    Sandyuk91 SammieMaria

    Posted

    Hi I also have spinal fusion af my lumber and thoratic spine .. I am 55 had this condition all my life it has deteriated over the years . I am in pain all the time . But not in a wheel chair yet x
Back to top

Report or request deletion

Thanks for your help!

We want the community to be a useful resource for our users but it is important to remember that the community are not moderated or reviewed by doctors and so you should not rely on opinions or advice given by other users in respect of any healthcare matters. Always speak to your doctor before acting and in cases of emergency seek appropriate medical assistance immediately. Use of the community is subject to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and steps will be taken to remove posts identified as being in breach of those terms.