Spinal stenosis treatment is a means to manage the symptoms caused by nerve compression associated with the narrowing of the space available for the spinal cord and/or nerve roots. This narrowing (stenosis) does not always produce symptoms, because many of the degenerative spine conditions that are generally responsible for infringing on the spinal openings are not inherently symptomatic. For example, in its early stages, a bone spur that grows along the edge of a vertebra might be detectable only through the use of an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan. However, if that bone spur grows large enough to make contact with a spinal nerve root, it can produce back or neck pain, radiating pain, tingling or numbness in the extremities, or weakness in a muscle group innervated by the affected nerve.

When to Seek Spinal Stenosis Treatment

Should a bone spur, herniated disc, bulging disc, shifted vertebra, or other degenerative spine issue compress the spinal cord or an adjacent nerve root, there is a chance that the associated symptoms could become chronic. In general, back or neck pain and other nerve-related symptoms are considered chronic if they last three months or longer. While chronic symptoms clearly are a sign that medical attention is required, that’s not necessarily the only indication that it may be time to visit a doctor or spine specialist. Anyone whose symptoms begin to adversely affect their ability to perform day-to-day activities – whether for a day, a week, or a month – should consider seeking a professional diagnosis.

Once the cause of the spinal stenosis has been determined, a patient can work with a physician to determine a treatment plan. Most spinal stenosis treatment plans begin with a regimen of conservative methods, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen. Typically, the dosage and strength of the medication required will be determined by the severity of the symptoms. Most cases respond well to over-the-counter medication, but a doctor may feel that prescription-strength narcotic medication is called for if pain is virtually unbearable. Another fairly common method of treatment is epidural injections of a corticosteroid solution, which can reduce inflammation at the site of the nerve compression, helping to ease pain.

Beyond Medication

In addition to medication, a regimen of conservative spinal stenosis treatment will almost certainly include some form of stretching or exercise. Because stenosis can occur at any level of the spine, the type of exercises assigned by a doctor or physical therapist will vary. Regardless of location, though, the basic goals remain the same: to strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve the flexibility of the affected area of the spine. Doing so provides extra support for the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, and vertebral joints, which promotes better posture and spinal stability.

While most people find that medication and exercise are sufficient, some turn to complementary and alternative forms of medicine for relief. This can include acupuncture, chiropractic adjustments, herbal remedies, and more. The efficacy of these alternative treatment methods remains up for debate, so it’s important to communicate with a doctor about whether an alternative treatment might make symptoms worse or conflict with the existing treatment plan.

Author Bio: Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient procedures for spinal stenosis and several other spinal conditions.

Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: Spinal stenosis