I just got the results from my MRI back. It showed that my spinal canal was more than 13 mm across (diameter). That doesn’t mean anything to me but the doctor said, I probably don’t have back pain from spinal stenosis. What else could be causing my pain?

MRI is a helpful tool for assessing the shape and structure of soft tissue in the spine. Measuring the diameter of the spinal canal helps identify the presence of spinal stenosis (SS).

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal. This is the space where the spinal cord is located. Anything that closes down this area can put pressure on the spinal cord and cause serious problems.

However, studies show it’s possible to have spinal stenosis without symptoms. It’s also possible to have symptoms of SS without any observed changes in the spine.

Scientists suspect there’s a problem called central sensitization. It’s possible that neurologic symptoms occur due to changes in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). The theory is that central sensitization is actually the underlying cause of most chronic low back pain.

The degree of stenosis or narrowing may not be as significant as the changes that occur in the nervous system as a result of stenosis. Even a small amount of narrowing may send enough signals through the spinal cord to the brain to set up a painful response.

Of course, it is possible that there is some other explanation for your symptoms. Your doctor will be conducting further follow-up tests to find out what else might be going on.