Hi...

An MRI showed I have a herniated disc, C5/C6 (in the right) and a pinched nerve, C4/C5 on the left... a real pain in the neck. But, my greater issue is severe stenosis in the C/5/C6 area. I have constant pain in my legs (particularly the right one) unless I am standing. My family physician says my leg pain is from the stenosis. I thought it was from my sciatic nerve because I have sciatica, too.

I have had the stenosis for about 20 yrs, and most of the time I had no symptoms. Is it possible this about will become asymptomatic ? Is there anything I can do to help aid in the problem ?

Thanks for any help.

M

The symptoms of cervical spinal stenosis may include the following:

* Neck pain; not always severe.
* Pain, weakness, or numbness in the shoulders, arms, and legs.
* Hand clumsiness.
* Gait and balance disturbances.
* Burning sensations, tingling, and pins and needles in the involved extremity, such as the arm or leg.
* In severe cases, bladder and bowel problems.
* Although rare, severe cases can also cause significant loss of function or even paraplegia.

Thank you, Michelle... Do you know of any treatments other than surgery ?