- Before stenosis can be treated, it must be properly identified. Symptoms include a persistent dull or sharp ache in the buttocks and the lower back. This ache may become worse or more pronounced when you are walking or doing physical activities. A patient may also experience radiating pain in the legs or thighs, numbness in the lower limbs, difficulty moving the hips, legs and knees and weakness in the limbs. Pain associated with spinal stenosis usually becomes less severe when you sit down.
- Diagnosis is the first step in the treatment process. A doctor will review your symptoms in order to identify the cause of the pain and rule out other potential problems. A physical exam allows the doctor to observe the limits of motion caused by the stenosis and to evaluate the level of pain. A CT scan, an MRI, a bone scan and a myelogram may be used to determine the specific source of the symptoms.
- Nonsurgical remedies are typically recommended as the first line of treatment for spinal stenosis. These include rest, support devices like back braces, and physical therapy. Painkillers, including analgesics and epidural steroid injections may be prescribed. Painkillers are intended for use while the spinal stenosis is healing, and not as a permanent solution.
- Surgery is usually the last resort. Surgery options include fusing the spinal vertabrae. Other options are laminotomy, laminectomy and formainotomy, which correct the narrowness of the spine and relieve pressure on the pinched nerve.
- Some patients prefer to seek alternative therapy for spinal stenosis. These alternative treatments include chiropractic manipulation, acupuncture and Swedish massage. Acupuncture and Swedish massage involve the use of pressure points, while chiropractic alignment involves realigning the spine. These alternative treatments may be effective at managing symptoms, but do not treat the underlying cause of spinal stenosis.
previous post