Arthritis isn't always the cause of spinal stenosis. Spinal stenosis can develop in conjunction with osteoarthritis due to a different underlying cause. Other spine conditions and diseases that can lead to spinal stenosis include a collapsed vertebral disc or an inherited spine disease.
The condition is commonly caused by wear-and-tear on the spine related to osteoarthritis. So, it's more likely to happen as someone ages. But people with other types of arthritis and related conditions that affect the spine may develop spinal stenosis.
Back stretches that involve deep spinal extension or flexion aren't beneficial for spinal stenosis patients. These stretches strain the spinal structures and can increase your pain levels. Cycling in hilly areas or on the uneven ground should be avoided with spinal stenosis.
Pain in your low back. This is pain that begins in your buttocks and extends down your leg. It may continue into your foot. A heavy feeling in your legs, which may lead to cramping in one or both legs.
Laminectomy is a surgery that doctors perform to treat spinal stenosis by removing the bony spurs and the bone walls of the vertebrae. This helps to open up the spinal column and remove the pressure on the nerves. Doctors may perform a discectomy during a laminectomy.
For most cases of spinal stenosis, the most effective way of management would be physical therapy. While there may be no standard regimen for this (on account of every patient's progression with the condition being different), most doctors will usually integrate: Manual therapy or massages. Exercise and stretching.
Yes! Walking is a good exercise for spinal stenosis. It's low impact, and you control the pace and distance. If you're able to walk without symptoms, incorporate this activity into your routine.
Most people with spinal stenosis cannot walk for a long period without having significant pain. More serious symptoms include: Difficulty or poor balance when walking. Problems controlling urine or bowel movements.
However, there may be a diseased spinal cord that is causing this symptom. As the disease advances and if left untreated, patients eventually end up in a wheelchair and lose the ability to walk. Another symptom that is present early on is hand "clumsiness".
Flare ups may be caused by muscle spasms, which can be caused by bending or twisting suddenly.
In spinal stenosis, people typically experience less pain with leaning forward, and especially with sitting. Studies of the lumbar spine show that leaning forward can increase the space available for the nerves. Pain is usually made worse by standing up straight and walking.
Spinal Stenosis
With this condition, it may be preferable to sleep on the sides with the knees curled up (in the fetal position). This helps relieve pressure on the nerve root. Sleeping in a reclining chair or an adjustable bed that allows the head and knees to remain elevated can also relieve pressure on the nerve.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reduce pain and inflammation. Examples of over-the-counter NSAIDs include aspirin, naproxen (Aleve), and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). Analgesics help relieve pain but don't affect inflammation. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is a common analgesic used for spinal stenosis.
Typically, spinal stenosis progresses at a slow pace if it's not treated properly. As the condition advances, the open space in the spinal canal continues to decrease. Eventually, spinal stenosis can lead to nerve impingement as the spinal canal presses on nearby nerves.
The most common cause of spinal stenosis is osteoarthritis, the gradual wear and tear that happens to your joints over time. Spinal stenosis is common because osteoarthritis begins to cause changes in most people's spines by age 50. That's why most people who develop symptoms of spinal stenosis are 50 or older.
Spinal stenosis in the lower back can cause pain or cramping in one or both legs. This happens when you stand for a long time or when you walk. Symptoms get better when you bend forward or sit. Some people also have back pain.
A spinal cord injury or a nerve disease may damage the nerves that help control the lower part of your colon. This is the part of the body that sends solid waste out of the body. This condition gets in the way of your normal ability to store and get rid of waste. It often causes constipation and bowel accidents.
When sitting, avoid leaning forward, make sure there is proper lumbar support for the inward curve of the low back, and keep both feet flat on the ground.
Chiropractic care can help reduce the pressure on the nerves while restoring your range of motion and reducing pain levels due to spinal stenosis. Chiropractic care is a proven, safe and effective treatment option for those who are searching for an alternative and natural method to treat spinal stenosis.
Symptoms are more likely to be present or get worse when you stand or walk. They often lessen or disappear when you sit down or lean forward. Most people with spinal stenosis cannot walk for a long period without having significant pain.
Mild lumbar stenosis can be successfully treated with physiotherapy. However, because the condition is degenerative, it is important that you remain active to minimise the reoccurrence of your symptoms. For more severe lumbar stenosis, the condition will be more persistent and your rehabilitation will take longer.