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2) Imaging
Imaging is one of the most reliable methods of diagnosing spinal stenosis. It is essential to locate the site of the stenosis. The most commonly performed imaging studies are CT and MRI.
- CT Scanning: CT scanning is the most commonly done in cases with low back pain. It visualizes the central spinal canal and can show any abnormality or narrowing. In addition, it remains the best method to visualize tumors. CT is radiation-based imaging test and is not suitable in pregnant females. The CT machine looks like a donut with a moving bed on which you will lie. The CT scanning typically takes a few minutes.
- MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging is the best imaging study to assess the spinal cord in general and cases with spinal stenosis in the lumbar region in particular. MRI does not involve radiation and can be done safely in pregnant females and multiple times over a short period of time. The typical MRI scan is more costly than the CT and takes a longer time. You may also feel bothered if you dislike narrow places since the donut found in the MRI machine is typically smaller and noisier than the CT scanning one.
