Treatment FAQ

what is the best treatment for spinal stenosis

by Dangelo Upton Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Medication

Mar 19, 2022 · The primary symptoms of spinal stenosis include: Radiating pain (called sciatica when it occurs in the lower back) Numbness or tingling in the arms, hands, legs, or feet. Weakness in the extremities. Neck pain (in cervical spinal stenosis) Clumsiness in the arms and hands (in cervical spinal ...

Procedures

Dec 27, 2019 · While some of the more conservative treatment modalities can provide relief from spinal stenosis pain for several months, surgical intervention can provide long-term relief. Following any treatment, a period of rehabilitative therapy is recommended to strengthen the muscles and build flexibility.

Therapy

Oct 20, 2020 · Surgery to treat spinal stenosis includes: Laminectomy Most frequently used surgical procedure for lumbar spinal stenosis Removes part or all of one or both lamina of the vertebra at the involved level Intraspinous spacer implantation Less invasive treatment option

Nutrition

Nov 21, 2021 · Examples of integrative therapies for cervical spinal stenosis include heat, massage, meditation, and acupuncture. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), which uses a low-voltage electrical current to stimulate the production of endorphins— the body’s natural pain relievers— may also be an option.

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Nonsurgical treatment for spinal stenosis may include: Physical therapy Anti-inflammatory medications, including steroid injections Activity modification These treatments help reduce inflammation in the area where the spinal cord or nerve roots are constricted, providing pain relief. Surgical Options

Are there any home remedies for spinal stenosis?

Mar 10, 2022 · Decompression therapy is where we lie on a treatment table. We apply traction belts to either side of where we want to treat and the traction machine will pull a relative force in order to stretch the spine and open up the holes where the nerves are coming out.

How to cure spinal stenosis naturally?

Decompression procedure: This outpatient procedure, also known as percutaneous image-guided lumbar decompression (PILD), specifically treats lumbar spinal stenosis caused by a thickening of a specific ligament (ligamentum flavum) in the back of the spinal column.

What are my options for spinal canal stenosis treatment?

Oct 05, 2021 · Spinal Stenosis Treatment Exercises and Stretches While the best treatment for spinal stenosis likely includes a trip to a spinal specialist, here are some at-home suggestions. If you experience the criteria listed above and you have none of the signs or symptoms that requires seeing a physician there are ways to manage stenosis on your own.

How do you treat spinal stenosis without surgery?

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What is the latest treatment for spinal stenosis?

Vertiflex procedure is minimally invasive and reversible A new spinal stenosis treatment is allowing people to walk without pain for the first time in years – and without relying on opioids.

How do you fix spinal stenosis without surgery?

Nonsurgical Treatment Options for Spinal StenosisSteroid Injections. Epidural steroid injections are commonly used to provide long-term pain relief. ... DRX9000. ... Medication. ... Physical Therapy. ... Correcting Posture. ... Permanent Lifestyle Changes. ... Facet Blocks. ... Radiofrequency Ablation.Feb 8, 2021

What is the most common treatment for spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is commonly treated with medication, both over-the-counter and prescription. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reduce pain and inflammation. Examples of over-the-counter NSAIDs include aspirin, naproxen (Aleve), and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin).Sep 1, 2020

How do you prevent spinal stenosis from getting worse?

What can I do to prevent lumbar spinal stenosis?Get regular exercise. Exercise strengthens the muscles that support your lower back and helps keep your spine flexible. ... Maintain good posture. Learn how to safely lift heavy objects. ... Maintain a healthy weight.

Will a cortisone shot help spinal stenosis?

What are epidural corticosteroid injections used for? Epidural steroid injections are commonly used to treat back pain caused by a herniated disc (slipped disc), lumbar radiculopathy, spinal stenosis or sciatica.Sep 15, 2020

Is walking good for spinal stenosis?

Walking is a good exercise for spinal stenosis. It's low impact, and you control the pace and distance. However, if walking triggers your symptoms, choose a different type of exercise. Discuss alternative movement options with your doctor.Feb 17, 2021

What is the best natural treatment for spinal stenosis?

Often Magnesium glycinate or Epsom Salt baths greatly diminished muscle aches and tension resulting from spinal stenosis. Referrals to trusted colleagues: Alternative modalities such as Acupuncture, Craniosacral therapy and massage can all lessen pain and promote the body's natural healing mechanisms.Aug 26, 2016

What activities should be avoided with spinal stenosis?

3 Spinal Stenosis Exercises To AvoidAvoid stretching in a standing position and extension stretches. ... Instead, try stretching while laying down. ... Avoid doing free weights. ... Instead, try using a weight machine. ... Avoid running and similar high-impact exercises. ... Instead, try swimming, cycling, or an elliptical machine.May 28, 2018

Can a chiropractor fix spinal stenosis?

Chiropractic is especially appropriate for spinal stenosis because it corrects and re-aligns dislocated and herniated discs, thus reducing pressure on the spinal cord and its joints and nerve networks. Apart from spinal manipulation, chiropractors use a variety of techniques to address stenosis symptoms.

What causes spinal stenosis to flare up?

A tightened space can cause the spinal cord or nerves to become irritated, compressed or pinched, which can lead to back pain and sciatica. Spinal stenosis usually develops slowly over time. It is most commonly caused by osteoarthritis or “wear-and-tear” changes that naturally occur in your spine as you age.Aug 17, 2020

Does spinal stenosis hurt all the time?

Key Considerations with Surgery for Lumbar Stenosis Spinal stenosis is generally not progressive. The pain tends to come and go, but it usually does not progress with time. The natural history with spinal stenosis, in the majority of patients, is that of episodic periods of pain and dysfunction.

How do you sleep with spinal stenosis?

People with spinal stenosis should consider sleep in the fetal position, or in an adjustable bed that allows the head and knees to be elevated. This relieves the pressure on the spinal nerves. When patients have hip pain, the best sleeping position is on their sides with a pillow between their knees.

What is the best treatment for spinal stenosis?

Physical therapy is another way to re-learn how to use your body in support of good health. And it just so happens to be one of the best treatments for spinal stenosis — one study in 2015 found that physical therapy had better outcomes than surgery when treating spinal stenosis.

How to help stenosis?

Stretches. Targeted spinal stenosis exercises can help lengthen the spine and relieve pressure on your nerves. Flexion exercises in particular decreased pain and lowered the risk of disability in people with spinal stenosis. Core stability stretches and exercises also resulted in an increase in walking capacity.

What is spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spine that occurs most often in the lower back ( but can also occur in the cervical spine). This narrowing eventually begins to crowd the spinal cord and nerves in the spinal column. When this happens, radiating pain and mobility issues can quickly follow.

How many people have spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is a pain condition that affects an estimated 500,000 people in the U.S. While some cases are mild and have little impact on daily life, other people experience debilitating pain and limited mobility. If you or someone you love is suffering, these are some of the best treatments for spinal stenosis.

Is yoga good for back pain?

For lower back pain, yoga is hard to beat. Yoga builds long, strong muscles and a tall, graceful spine. When it comes to yoga for spinal stenosis, research is growing. Stretching in yoga improves gait, decreases pain, and increases well-being and the ability to deal with the mental aspects of pain.

What is the procedure called for spinal stenosis?

Vertiflex procedure for spinal stenosis. The Vertiflex procedure for spinal stenosis (also called the Superion® implant) is a new way to increase the space between the vertebrae — space that may collapse as spinal stenosis progresses.

How long does a massage help with spinal stenosis?

One study found that weekly massage over a ten-week period provided pain relief for up to six months.

How to treat spinal stenosis?

Usually reserved for severe spinal stenosis, the objective of surgical treatment is to relieve the pressure on nerves. Surgeons release this pressure by expanding the space within the spinal canal. This is achieved by increasing the area surrounding the spine. With a laminectomy, the lamina or arched roof of the spinal canal is removed along with any bone spurs or overgrowth. Surgeons may also be able to perform a laminotomy, which only removes part of the lamina. In some circumstances, the surgeon may also need to fuse the spine with screws or bone grafts to provide stabilization.

Why do people get spinal stenosis?

There are several causes of spinal stenosis. Being born with smaller spaces within the spinal canal can lead to the development of stenosis . Other root causes include overgrowth of bone due to osteoarthritis, herniated disks, thickened ligaments, spinal injury, and rarely, tumors. Many causes of spinal stenosis are related to degenerative changes that occur over the years. Because of this, most patients with stenosis are over 50.

Where is spinal stenosis most likely to occur?

Generally happening either in the neck or lower back region , stenosis can present with a variety of symptoms. Initially, patients may not realize spinal stenosis has occurred.

What to do for nerve pain?

If nerve pain is severe, rest may be the treatment of choice until the inflammation has subsided. Chiropractic manipulation along with stretching exercises have also been shown to provide relief for an extended period.

Is lumbar decompression invasive?

While this treatment is an invasive option, PILD is much less invasive than spin al surgery . The goal is the same as other treatments to relieve pressure on the nerves.

How is spinal stenosis treated?

Spinal stenosis is treated with medications, lifestyle options, and surgery. Medications used to treat spinal stenosis symptoms include: Other nonsurgical treatments for spinal stenosis symptoms include: Implantation of a device between the spinous processes at one or two vertebral levels, relieving compression.

What is the best treatment for lumbar spinal stenosis?

Acupuncture. Massage. Surgery to treat spinal stenosis includes: Laminectomy. Most frequently used surgical procedure for lumbar spinal stenosis. Removes part or all of one or both lamina of the vertebra at the involved level. Intraspinous spacer implantation. Less invasive treatment option.

What is spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spaces in the spinal canal, which is the space that contains the vertebrae, spinal cord, spinal discs, nerves, and other tissues . The narrowing is typically caused by arthritis or injury.

Can osteoarthritis cause spinal stenosis?

Most people develop some osteoarthritis -- the main cause of spinal stenosis -- as they age, which is why spinal stenosis is most common among adults over age 50. However, you may be able to lower the risk of developing symptoms of spinal stenosis by keeping the spine healthy.

Can spinal stenosis cause back pain?

Spinal stenosis is treated with medications, lifestyle options, and surgery. Spinal stenosis does not always cause symptoms, especially early on. When symptoms do occur, they may include: Back pain. Tingling, numbness, or cramping that spreads down the legs. Usually affects both legs, but symptoms may be worse in one leg.

What is the best medicine for spinal stenosis?

Oral medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) – such as ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®), naproxen (Aleve®), aspirin – or acetaminophen (Tylenol®) can help relieve inflammation and provide pain relief from spinal stenosis. Be sure to talk with your healthcare provider and learn about possible long-term problems of taking these medicines, such as acid reflux and stomach ulcers. Your healthcare provider may also recommend other prescription medications with pain-relieving properties, such as the anti-seizure drug gabapentin (Neurontin®) or tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline (Elavil®). Opioids, such as oxycodone (Oxycontin®) or hydrocodone (Vicodin®), may be prescribed for short-term pain relief. However, they are usually prescribed with caution since they can become habit forming. Muscle relaxants such as cyclobenzaprine (Amrix®, Fexmid®) can treat muscle camps and spasms.

What is the procedure for lumbar spinal stenosis?

The procedure involves removing bone or tissue this area to provide more space for the nerve roots. Interspinous process spaces: This is a minimally invasive surgery for some people with lumbar spinal stenosis.

What causes a pinched nerve in the spine?

The spinal cord and/or nerve roots become compressed or pinched, which causes symptoms, such as low back pain and sciatica. The causes of spinal stenosis include: Bone overgrowth/arthritic spurs: Osteoarthritis is the “wear and tear” condition that breaks down cartilage in your joints, including your spine.

How do you know if you have spinal stenosis?

First, spinal stenosis develops slowly over time, so you may not have symptoms even though changes are occurring in your spine. Your first noticeable symptoms may be pain, numbness, tingling or weakness in your back or neck or arms and legs depending on the location of the stenosis.

Where does spinal stenosis occur?

Although spinal stenosis can happen anywhere along the spinal column, the lower back (number one most common area) and neck are common areas. Symptoms vary from person to person and may come and go. Symptoms of lower back (lumbar) spinal stenosis include: Pain in the lower back.

What are the symptoms of lumbar canal stenosis?

Symptoms of lumbar canal stenosis include pain, numbness or weakness in the legs, groin, hips, buttocks, and lower back. Symptoms usually worsen when walking or standing and might decrease when lying down, sitting, or leaning slightly forward. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center.

What causes low back pain and sciatica?

Spinal stenosis has many causes. What they share in common is that they change the structure of the spine, causing a narrowing of the space around your spinal cord and nerves roots that exit through the spine. The spinal cord and/or nerve roots become compressed or pinched, which causes symptoms, such as low back pain and sciatica.

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Treatment

Clinical Trials

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

Preparing For Your Appointment

Your provider will work with you to develop a care plan that may include one or more of these treatment options.
Treatment options for spinal stenosis include: Medication, physical therapy and surgery. Surgical procedures are opted if the pain is severe and there are any neurological problems.
Medication

Analgesics: Reduce pain.

Ibuprofen . Naproxen . Acetaminophen


Antidepressants: Ease chronic pain.

Doxepin . Clomipramine


Anti-seizure medication: Reduce pain caused by damaged nerve.

Gabapentin . Pregabalin


Opioids: For short time pain relief.

Oxycodone . Hydrocodone


Steroid injections: Prevent swelling.

Betamethasone

Procedures

Laminectomy: Part of the vertebrae is removed and more space is provided for the nerves.

Foraminotomy: This is a procedure to widen the passageway where the spinal nerve root exits the spinal canal.

Spinal fusion: Bone grafts or metal implants are used to attach the affected bones of the spine together.

Therapy

Physical therapy:To maintain flexibility and build up strength.

Nutrition

Foods to eat:

  • Foods to stay hydrated
  • Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables
  • Carbohydrates and fat
  • Protein
  • Vitamin and minerals
  • Soy-based food and beverages

Foods to avoid:

  • Red meat
  • Caffeine
  • Alcohol

Specialist to consult

Neurologist
Specializes in treating diseases of the nervous system, which includes the brain, the spinal cord, and the nerves.
Neurosurgeon
Specializes in surgery on the nervous system, especially the brain and spinal cord.
Spinal surgeon
Specializes in the treatment of spinal diseases and conditions through surgical procedures.
Orthopedic surgeon
Specializes in the surgery of bone and joint disorders.

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