The natural aging process and cumulative wear-and-tear on the spine that goes along with it make almost everyone susceptible to spinal stenosis at some point in their lives. This condition develops when a herniated disc, bone spur, or other hardened tissue leads to a gradual narrowing of the spinal canal in one or more areas, such as the opening at the center of the canal, the spinal nerve branches, or the spaces between the vertebrae. The resulting pressure exerted on the spinal cord and nerves can lead to neurological symptoms, including pain, decreased sensation, and muscle weakness. While home treatment cannot cure spinal stenosis, it can help make a patient feel more comfortable by alleviating the symptoms.

First and foremost, if you believe you may be suffering from spinal stenosis, you should see your doctor to confirm your diagnosis. In addition, it is important to consult with a physician before beginning any type of home treatment or exercise regimen.

Pay Attention to What Your Body is Telling You

That said, the best way to feel better is to avoid the movements and activities that exacerbate your symptoms. Because each case is highly individualized, you will need to pay close attention to your body. It may be helpful to keep a journal and record when you experience pain and what you were doing during and just prior to its onset.

In general, any positions that extend the spine will narrow the intervertebral space even more, so it’s advisable to avoid walking downhill, lying on your stomach, and standing for long periods of time. Most patients find that they feel more comfortable in a flexed forward position; therefore, you might try walking on a treadmill at a slight incline using the arm rails to support your body weight as necessary, riding a stationary bicycle while leaning on the handlebars, sitting in a recliner instead of a straight-backed chair, and sleeping with your lower legs elevated on a pillow to keep your spine mildly flexed.

Exercise – You Might be Surprised by How it Makes You Feel

If the mere thought of exercise is making you cringe, don’t knock it until you’ve tried it! Moving your spine is very beneficial in that it will deliver oxygen to your discs, help your blood to circulate, and strengthen your back muscles. Conversely, a lack of motion can lead to further deterioration. For these reasons, it is extremely important to remain as active as you can tolerate. A regular exercise program consisting of low impact activities, such as walking and swimming for 20-30 minutes a day, combined with movements designed to improve the strength, range of motion, and flexibility of your spine, can be very helpful in managing the symptoms of spinal stenosis. A physical therapist can recommend appropriate exercises, and also teach you proper lifting techniques and other useful maneuvers.

Eliminate Household Hazards

Because spinal stenosis can cause pain and numbness in your legs, you may be at risk of losing your balance. Thus, you should take extra care to eliminate tripping hazards around your home, such as slippery floors and carpets, electrical cords, toys, poor lighting, cluttered walkways, throw rugs, and low-standing furniture like ottomans and footstools. Pay particular attention to your bathroom, one of the most hazardous rooms in the house. Make sure the bottom of your tub and shower have a rough, non-slip coating, or use a safety mat, and consider installing grab bars for extra support around the tub, shower, and toilet. In the kitchen, make sure everything you use on a regular basis is kept within easy reach.

Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers as Needed

Many patients find relief by taking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen. Just be sure to review all of your medicines, both prescription and non-prescription, with each of your physicians to identify potential drug interactions. Also, take care to limit your use of alcohol and any medications that cause dizziness or drowsiness, which can increase your risk of falling.

If your pain persists or worsens, surgical intervention may be recommended to treat your spinal stenosis. Be sure to discuss all of your options with your doctor. You may be a candidate for a minimally invasive procedure that results in a quicker recovery period and allows you to reclaim your formerly active lifestyle much sooner than you could expect following traditional spinal surgery.

John Soland is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Soland is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to types of spinal treatments.

John Soland is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Soland is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to types of spinal treatments. http://www.lsiphilly.com/

Author Bio: John Soland is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Soland is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to types of spinal treatments.

Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: types of spinal treatments