Is cauda equina inevitable?

[ans]

Hi. As a semi-professional paranoid, I note that my recent MRI stated that I have medium to "moderate" central canal stenosis at the L4-L5 level. I have extensive DDD so the narrowing of the spine has "squashed" this level and another one to a lesser extent.

Since there's no spinal cord at this level but the compression is against the cauda equina, if I do nothing re: fusion, is getting cauda equina inevitable?

Just checking.

Thanks. - ans