How is spinal stenosis treated?

Answer 1

There are two types of spinal stenosis, that of the lower back and cervical spinal stenosis. Lower back spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal in the lumbar area. Cervical spinal stenosis is a narrowing in the spinal canal of the neck.

Answer 2

When you need to be sure your doctor has omri tech certification you could ask him or inquire at the hospital reception area. However, an Open MRI Technician is not usually a doctor but a technician.

Answer 3

Spinal Stenosis is a condition that can result in neurological problems, extreme pain and numbness, requiring surgery and medication to manage. The disease is caused by a narrowing of the spine. This narrowing typically takes the form of lumbar spinal stenosis, in the lower back, or cervical spinal stenosis, in the neck.

There are a number of treatment options available for patients. These include physical therapy, spinal injections, pain medication and surgery. Many patients, however, continue to experience some form of pain after successful treatments. A number of steps can be taken to aid in management of the disease.

Managing Spinal Stenosis

While many physicians are unsure of any positive effect on spinal stenosis, patients are usually encouraged to exercise regularly. They are instructed to participate in core strengthening activities and to engage in aerobic workouts. While it may not have any direct benefit, physical activity has been proven to help pain management in general.

Patients suffering with lumbar spinal stenosis should always use proper lifting techniques, even when lifting smaller objects, to prevent further damage. The back should remain straight, while hips and knees can be used to lift the object.

Posture is also very important when dealing with lumbar spinal stenosis. Patients should sit with a straight back, avoiding the tendency to lean forward. A chair with good lumbar support can greatly aid in maintaining proper posture. When standing, weight should always remain on the balls of the feet. It is also a good idea to keep knees unlocked and feet approximately shoulder width apart.

Probably one of the most important concerns for a spinal stenosis patient is deit. Maintaining a healthy weight will decrease the pressure on the narrowed sections of the spine. Moreover, eating foods with a anti-inflammatory effect can actually improve pain symptoms. Adequate hydration is also very important.

Federal Assistance for Spinal Stenosis

In the United States, spinal stenosis is recognized as a legitimate and serious disability. Those who continue to have problems managing their pain can take advantage of a number of programs to assist in their daily activities and medical needs. This is true of both lumbar spinal stenosis patients and many cervical stenosis patients.

Answer 4

Spinal stenosis, a condition that compresses the spinal cord or spinal nerve roots, can cause chronic pain and restrict your mobility. The bone degeneration that occurs with aging is a common cause of spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the vertebral canal that holds the spinal cord. Damage to spinal disks, osteoarthritis, spinal injuries, tumors and congenital bone diseases may also contribute to stenosis. As the canal narrows, the nerves that control voluntary and involuntary functions can be damaged. An orthopedic spinal specialist may combine multiple treatment strategies to relieve pain and restore mobility.

Medication and Surgery

Lumbar stenosis, which affects the lower back and the roots of the spinal nerves, may lead to pain or weakness in the legs. Cervical stenosis, which affects the spinal cord, may cause neck or shoulder pain and numbness or weakness in your extremities. In mild to moderate cases of stenosis, pain may be managed by over-the-counter anti-inflammatory products. In more severe cases, your doctor may prescribe antidepressants to relieve symptoms. Anticonvulsant medications, which are used to control seizures, may reduce the pain caused by nerve damage. Opioid pain relievers may be prescribed for severe symptoms. In advanced cases, a pain management specialist can be a valuable resource.

Epidural injections are often effective at easing stenosis pain. Cortisone, a steroid medication, is injected into the spinal canal to minimize inflammation and relieve compression. Frequent injections may weaken bones, however, which could worsen vertebral damage. Your doctor may recommend surgery to reduce pressure on the spinal cord if injections and other non-surgical methods are not effective.

Exercise and Lifestyle Modification

A physical therapist can teach you exercises that may relieve spinal stenosis symptoms. A therapist or orthopedist can also advise you on how to modify your activities and routines to avoid pain. For instance, a therapist may suggest that you use a walker or cane to promote mobility and sit in an adjustable recliner instead of a chair with a straight back. Eating foods rich in calcium and potassium or taking calcium supplements may help you avoid bone deterioration and prevent further narrowing of your spinal canal. An multifaceted treatment plan may maximize your activity level and improve your quality of life.