Question
Hello,
I have recently been diagnosed with cervical spinal stenosis after having a long bout of illness and multiple symptoms. Spinal stenosis was the only definitive dx. I have recd. Speculation of Chronic Fatigue syndrome due to an extremely elevated Epstein Barr titer. My neurologist has advised I see an ortho surgeon for his opinion on the stenosis. Without taking too much of your time, I was wondering if this fullness, achey, weird feeling in my ears and head (below the ears) could be related to the stenosis. I will add that I deal daily with burning and tingling through my left foot/toes, and some of my fingers. Thank you for your time, Kim

Answer
Dear Kim,

In short, the answer to your question is yes...there can be a connection due to the proximity of an area of the neck called the trigeminal ganglion (a group of nerve cells outside the central nervous system with connections to the cranial nerves in your head).  

There is a direct neurological connection to the ears: upper cervical spinal nerves have direct connections called "mono-synapses", that extend into the vestibular apparatus and the labyrinthine ear (inner ear structures). Additionally, the spinal cord, and the tirgeminal ganglion provides a relay of spinal nerves to send signals into the brain and cranial nerves which are responsible for sensory functions.  These nerves and connections can be affected by stenosis depending on the level of the problem.

In addition to your medical doctor's advice to see an orthopedist, you should make sure that the ortho has had training such as a spine fellowship.  Otherwise, a neurosurgeon may be a better choice to evaluate your condition.

Respectfully,
Dr. J. Shawn Leatherman
www.suncoasthealthcare.net