Know More about the Pain Management Techniques for Spinal Stenosis Spinal stenosis, refers to the narrowing of the open spaces within the spinal canal. This article discusses the top treatment modalities for this condition.
Spinal stenosis refers to a condition when the open spaces within the spine become narrowed, causing pressure on the spinal cord and nerves of the spine. This results in pain from pinched nerve roots or compression on the spinal cord itself. Typically occurring in the lower back and neck area, this condition is caused by aging and wear-and-tear changes in the spine related to osteoarthritis. Some of the other causes of this spinal disorder may include – herniated disks, injuries, thickened ligaments, overgrowth of bone, tumors and spinal injuries. Pain, tingling, numbness and muscle weakness are some of the common symptoms associated with the condition and these symptoms can worsen over time. Leading multi-specialty pain management and healthcare centers in Brooklyn, NYC offer effective non-invasive treatment modalities that alleviate the immediate symptoms and other complications related to this condition. This spinal condition is most common in men and women above 50 years of age. On the other hand, it may occur in younger people (who are born with a narrowing of the spinal canal) or who suffer from an injury to the spine. Generally, people with a family history of spinal stenosis have a higher risk of developing this condition due to its genetic trait. However, having a relative with spinal stenosis does not mean that there is a 100 percent chance that you will develop this condition. What Are the Common Symptoms? Spinal stenosis can normally develop at any place within the spinal column and in most cases this condition occurs in the lumbar (lower) spine and to a lesser extent, the cervical spine (neck). Some
people may not experience any particular symptom for this condition. The type and severity of symptoms may mainly depend on the location of the stenosis and specific nerves that gets affected. Some common symptoms people experience include ▪
Back pain or neck pain
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Problems with walking and balance
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Numbness or tingling sensation in a hand/arm/foot/leg
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Pain or cramping in one or both legs (when you stand for long periods of time or when you walk)
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Bowel or bladder dysfunction (urinary urgency and incontinence)
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Hot or cold feelings in the legs
How Is Spinal Stenosis Diagnosed and Treated? As the signs and symptoms of this spinal disorder resemble those with many other age-related conditions, diagnosing this condition is very difficult. Pain management doctors may conduct a detailed review of previous medical history and evaluate pain symptoms and normal neurologic function. In order to determine the root cause of this problem, physicians may conduct different types of imaging tests such as X-rays, open MRI scan (Magnetic resonance imaging) and CT myelogram. Spinal stenosis pain management in Brooklyn involves combining several non-invasive treatment modalities like physical therapy, TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation), epidural steroid injections, and NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) to better manage pain symptoms.
✓ Physical therapy – These are therapeutic exercise programs that focus on improving strength and mobility, enhancing joint function and range of motion. Therapeutic exercise programs include gentle strengthening; stretching, aerobic and isometric exercises that helps to improve normal function, movement and increase flexibility.
✓ Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) – uses low voltage electrical simulation to the affected part to better manage pain.
✓ Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications – Pain relief medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen and acetaminophen are used to treat inflammation and prevent further spinal damage.
✓ Epidural Steroid Injections – Steroid medications are injected into the epidural space to reduce inflammation and pain that radiates to the arms and the legs.
✓ Prolotherapy – This treatment method is used to treat connective tissue injuries of the musculoskeletal system that have not healed by either rest or other nonsurgical therapies. Also known as sclerotherapy or regenerative injection therapy, this method accelerates healing and alleviates pain.
Preventing Spinal Stenosis As this spinal condition develops over the years, it is important to take good care of your back in order to reduce the risk of spinal degeneration. Remaining physically active and doing regular body exercise can strengthen your back muscles and spine. Always try to maintain a healthy body weight as additional weight increases the amount of stress placed on the spine.