Non-Operative Treatment for Spinal Stenosis

spinal stenosis

Regardless of what is believed in today's society, there are other options to relieve the pain caused by spinal stenosis rather than surgery. Activity modification, steroid injections, and regular exercise are three of the most common treatments for stenosis of the spine.

Exercise isn't a cure all for this condition, but it definitely helps alleviate some of the pain. It is very important for patients with spinal stenosis to remain active. It is a key point in any treatment plan involving the condition. Patients normally receive counseling with activity modification so they can continue with their daily activities while putting less stress on the injured vertebrae.

The most common symptoms of stenosis of the spine are numbness and tingling in the legs, low back pain, and limitations in walking. The leg pain related to stenosis usually appears acutely, but the condition can worsen over the course of time. When an older person is seen walking while leaning over a shopping cart it is usually the case of stenosis of the spine.

The pain that occurs with stenosis comes and goes rather than continuously. Certain activities can increase the pain more than others, but rest is the best way to relieve the aches and pains. Spinal stenosis has a changing effect on nerve compression, and chiropractors are the experts in this area. Chiropractic treatment will alleviate the pain with an appropriate treatment plan based on the diagnosis.

Surgical procedures should be the last option for stenosis. Natural treatment is by far the best for the body and patient. Therapeutic exercises improve posture and strengthen the muscles that support the spine. Chiropractic adjustments and massage therapy go hand in hand with proper treatment. Adjustments align the vertebrae back to their normal positions and allow the blood to flow naturally. Massage therapy helps to release the tight muscles that can then be strengthened and re-trained to properly support the spine.

Spinal decompression therapy, or traction, is a highly effective treatment for stenosis. It helps to relieve any pressure on the nerves and allows new space to open up in the spine. Chiropractors seek a balance of all the systems in the body for a positive treatment plan because their treatment plans are based on the specific idea that the body seeks for a certain point of balance, or homeostasis.

Steroid injections definitely help with spinal stenosis, but like all other medications there can be possible side effects. Chiropractic treatment is a great, natural way for the body to heal itself regarding stenosis, and it can be significantly less expensive than other traditional treatments.