The first step in spinal stenosis treatment is often focused on pain management. This painful condition can arise when a herniated disc, bone spurs, or other tissue deposits cause the open area of the spinal canal to narrow in one or more places, such as the space at the center, the canals through which the spinal nerves branch out, or the spaces between the vertebrae. As a result, pressure is exerted on the spinal cord and the nerves that travel through it. While some people are born with abnormally narrow spinal canals and others develop it as a result of trauma or disease, most patients experience spinal stenosis after age 50 due to the naturally occurring wear and tear on the spine. Indeed, spinal deterioration is a phenomenon commonly associated with aging.

When left untreated, spinal stenosis can lead to a loss of flexibility along with chronic pain that limits the patient’s daily activities, such as working, doing chores, traveling, and exercising. Surgery can be effective, but it is usually only recommended as a last resort if the patient’s pain does not respond to conservative treatment.

Following a proper diagnosis, a patient’s non-surgical spinal stenosis treatment options may include:

– Activity modification – When being treated for spinal stenosis, patients are usually counseled to avoid activities that exacerbate their symptoms. Most patients find that they feel more comfortable in a flexed forward position; therefore, they may be advised to try walking while bending forward over a walker or shopping cart or riding a stationary bicycle while leaning on the handlebars. Pain also may be eased by sitting in a recliner instead of a straight-backed chair.

– Exercise – Although it may seem counterintuitive, a lack of activity can lead to further debilitation. Moving the spine can bring oxygen to its various components, help blood to circulate, and strengthen the back muscles. Therefore, it is important for patients to remain as active as they can tolerate. An appropriate spinal stenosis exercise regimen consisting of low impact activities, such as walking and swimming, along with movements designed to improve the strength, range of motion, and flexibility of the spine, is usually integral to any treatment program.

– Epidural steroid injections – While not curative, an injection of cortisone into the epidural space may temporarily relieve the symptoms associated with spinal stenosis. Up to three injections may be administered over the course of several months. Generally, if a patient experiences relief, he or she will likely be considered a good candidate for later spinal stenosis surgery, should it be deemed necessary.

– Anti-inflammatory medications – Over-the-counter medicines such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin may be helpful in relieving the pain associated with spinal stenosis.

– Alternating hot and cold packs – Some spinal stenosis symptoms may be responsive to the application of heat or ice. Heat can relax the muscles and stimulate blood flow, which aids in the healing process, but prolonged heat should be avoided. Ice may be helpful to numb the affected area, reduce swelling, and achieve temporary relief after exercise. A frozen bag of peas works well for this purpose. It’s best to alternate the application of heat and ice for 10-15 minutes each.

– A back or neck brace – A doctor may recommend a spinal brace or cervical collar to provide stability, immobilize the weak structures, and discourage motion that causes pain.

– Massage – Deep tissue massage that utilizes direct pressure to release tension in the ligaments, tendons, and muscles may be useful in alleviating the pain and discomfort of this degenerative neck and back condition.

If the patient’s pain persists after he or she follows a conservative treatment regimen incorporating some or all of these techniques, surgical intervention may be recommended. Among the surgical options available are minimally invasive procedures that result in a quicker recovery period that allows the patient to reclaim his formerly active lifestyle much sooner than that which could be expected following traditional open spine surgery.

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 spinal stenosis treatment options as well as treatments for several other spinal conditions.

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 spinal stenosis treatment options. http://www.laserspineinstitute.com/back_problems/spinal_stenosis/treatment/

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 spinal stenosis treatment options as well as treatments for several other spinal conditions.

Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: spinal stenosis treatment