Dec. 2011 - I recently have an MRI due to severe pain on my lower back that radiates from my buttocks all the way down to both legs when I start walking. The pain gets worse when prolonged standing but gets relieved by sitting with a slightly bend forward. The MRI shows a lumbar spinal stenosis between L3 and L4, L4 and L5 and S. The symptoms started sometime in September 2011 and did not mention to the doctor until Dec. of last year. Symptoms are progressing and I was advised to see my previous neurosurgeon that operated my first and second cervical spinal stenosis 10 years ago. The surgery 10 years ago was a success and hoping that my lumbar stenosis surgery will be as well.

I'm 58 and was diagnosed with Lumbar Stenosis via an MRI. I also have ruptured discs. Sometimes the pain is really intense in my neck, back, legs. Twice from the ruptured discs I reinjured and had to lay in bed for 2 months-- crawling on the floor, couldn't walk or sit up. Slowly got back to health by physical therapy: electrical stimulation (stops spasms/pain) massage after some recovery and then slow swimming, floating. I got addicted to vicodin in order to survive work and numbness, imbalance, arm, leg shooting pain-- the whole bit including lack of sleep. Then I decided to cure myself or at least manage the pain. I now go to a fantastic chiropractor who uses electric stimulation, massage, some manipulations (if not pain) every week or ten days. I exercise (biking, swimming, some cardio and weights-- but STOP if there is any pain. And no plyometrics, jumping, etc. I am still in pain often but I am happy and able to work and play & enjoy life. I hope it will not get worse, to the point of immobility.

As of 12/10/11, I have Spinal Stenosis. I was diagnosed by the U of M doctors along w/ V.A doctors back in 2004. This all be a result of a bad wreck with my semi into a bridge guard-rail, and, also a couple of bad falls off my truck's flatbed trailer. I am now having loss of Bladder control and it is happening more frequently. Yesterday alone, it happened twice where I urinated on myself (glad I was home), but, it is very degrading and I feel like a freak. I get an instantaneous urge/warning I have to go, and, have inability to hold it back as in being normal. I think it's time to have this re-checked to see what all is going on. I also have herniated/slipped discs as well mainly in my Lumbar region, but, I also have disc issues in my T and C levels. I'm a wreck and am seriously thinking that a Foley or full Catheterization may be in order. However; I also have Diabetes and M.S. besides, as well as Heart problems in which any and all of these ailments can be contributing in negative ways. Anyway; I pray God may heal us from this painful and troubling condition.

I am a 65-year-old black female. At age 18, I was in the military. I'm from the Deep South. I experienced a severe pain in my right knee, causing me to fall into the fence. (I walked with a cane for a month). I have had problems with my knees ever since. The pain radiated upwards to my thighs. I am now diagnosed with severe-to-moderate lumbar spinal stenosis. Rarely am I free of pain, and it radiated down my right leg to a couple of inches above my knee. I have a problem walking long distances. I was diagnosed with cysts on the left side of my spine. I tried physical therapy once and wound up in the emergency room in excruciating pain. I walked with a walker for about one month. I want to try water aerobics.

Avoid surgery if possible. I have been challenged with issues due to sports injuries but have pulled through and have been pain free for 15 years through diet yoga and moderate exercise. It will flare up for a couple of weeks if I get too aggressive but I stay positive and use ice and anti inflammatory medication. I can relate to all the concerns but you have to keep a positive outlook and you too will pull through.

Since diagnosis with lumbar spinal stenosis 6 years ago, I am having more severe pain and with my sciatic nerve. Also, I have lost an inch to my height.