I am 70 years old and have been in good health. High blood pressure, but under control with meds. I have been diagnosed with spinal stenosis. MRI has indicated mild dextroscoliosis and Moderate L-34 and L4-5 desiccation with facet joint. Physical therapy did little and shots in the spine did not help. I was close to considering surgery (my dr. did not encourage it, but said I knew my own pain level), but then my pain eased up and I have lived with little pain since. Mornings have been the hardest, but usually when I am up about half an hour, I feel better. Some days are rough. Today, however, I woke up okay and then had a gripping pain to the right side of my spine (looking at the back) and cannot walk upright. I have a walking stick and walk like Yoda. This happened about 3 weeks ago, but the back eased up after an hour or so. My question: Do I need to go to the emergency room? Am I in danger of paralysis? My legs are not affected. I can lift them even when I am in pain and laying flat.