Five options for spinal stenosis treatment

Your spine is responsible for a lot of important functions in your body. It helps support your upper body. Its flexibility allows you to bend and twist. And it houses the nerves that run from your head throughout the rest of your body.

It’s normal to experience some back pain throughout your life, but conditions that hurt your spine should be taken seriously. Prolonged or severe spine pain may be the sign of a serious condition like spinal stenosis.

What is spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is a form of back pain that is related to the narrowing of the spinal column. When the spinal column grows narrow, it puts pressure on the nerves that run through it, which causes chronic pain.

Spinal stenosis is often related to conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. It can also be caused by genetic defects, scoliosis and other conditions that affect the spine.

How is spinal stenosis treated?

Treatments for spinal stenosis vary depending on the severity of your condition and what is causing it. Physicians always try non-invasive methods first, but severe cases may require surgery.

Five common treatments for spinal stenosis:

1. Medication — Prescription pain medication can help reduce your pain. You may also be prescribed anti-inflammatory medication to reduce any inflammation that may be putting pressure on the nerves.
2. Steroids — Your doctor may inject corticosteroids into your spine to help reduce swelling and inflammation, especially in cases related to arthritis.
3. Physical therapy — Physical therapists can help strengthen and stretch the muscles in your back and core to provide more support for your upper body. This can help reduce pain and improve your range of motion.
4. Laminectomy or foraminotomy — The goal of these surgeries is to make more room for your nerves in your spine. A laminectomy is the removal of a small part of your vertebrae in troublesome areas. A foraminotomy is the expansion of the portion of your spine where the nerves exit.
5. Spinal fusion — A spinal fusion connects the bones in your spine together with screws, rods and implants to create space for new bone to grow.

Contact Armor Physical Therapy for spinal stenosis treatment

Our team at Armor Physical Therapy works closely with spinal stenosis patients to develop personalized treatments. We can help improve the strength and flexibility of your back and core to reduce pressure off the spine.

We can also help in cases that require surgery. Physical therapists can help you prepare before surgery and recover afterward, so you can get back on your feet quickly. Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.