Arthritis and other similar diseases can cause a narrowing of the spinal foramen. The images below show a healthy spine and a spine with a narrow foramen. Which symptom would an individual with a narrow foramen most likely experience?

A.
increased flexibility from the constriction of muscle
B.
poor posture from loss of tendon attachment sites
C.
back pain from the compressed nerves
D.
lower blood pressure from increased blood flow

The symptom most likely to be experienced by an individual with a narrow spinal foramen is back pain from the compressed nerves, according to the image.

Explanation:

One of the consequences of inflammatory processes affecting the vertebrae is the loss of the normal configuration of these bone structures.

The narrowing of the vertebral foramen as a result of arthritis, among other causes, can compromise the emergence of peripheral nerve roots, producing pain as a symptom. Long-term root compression can also cause compromised peripheral nerve function, such as paresthesias, numbness and paralysis.

An individual with a narrow spinal foramen will have back pain, due the compressed nerves, as a result of this condition.

    The other options are not correct because they are not direct consequences of the narrowing of the spinal foramen.