How do you make the diagnosis of lumbar spinal stenosis?

Imaging: There are some clues on history (worse with walking, standing, and/or maintaining certain postures, and relieved with sitting or lying) but the presentation is often similar to peripheral vascular disease- unilateral or bilateral pain with sensory loss, weakness, with symptoms worse with activity. The diagnosis is made by typical symptoms and neuroimaging- some debate between ct vs. Mri.

By history & imaging: The history giving symptoms of pain in back and/or legs standing and walking relieved by sitting or bending over is classic. If a vascular reason, same symptoms occur but one can stand in place and not sit or bend for relief. A MRI or ct will diagnose the stenosis.

MRI: Mri is the most common study. Check out spine-health.Com.