How to Treat Spinal Stenosis

Treatment for spinal stenosis falls into two categories: nonsurgical and surgical. Surgical treatments are used to relieve pressure and correct, restore and maintain the strength of the spine. Non-surgical treatments often treat the pain but not the condition itself. Unless the condition is caused by acute injury, non-surgical treatments are often used before surgery. If the condition is causing neurological disorders such as bowel or bladder disorders or impaired mobility, surgery is recommended. Read on to learn more about treating spinal stenosis.

Instructions

• 1

  Take ibuprofen, aspirin or naproxen to alleviate pain and reduce swelling. Acetaminophen is used to relieve pain but does not reduce swelling. Heat and ice therapy may also be recommended.

• 2

  Receive corticosteroid injections in the spinal cord when pain is acute, or radiating down the legs, to reduce swelling and pain. The number of injections you can receive are limited, and the effects are not always lasting. Nerve-block injections can also be used to inhibit pain.

• 3

  Use physical therapy to build strength in the back and abdominals, which help hold the body in alignment. Flexibility exercises can increase or maintain mobility.

• 4

  Consider using a brace or corset to support the spine. These are usually used on elderly patients with more severe degeneration. Activity may be restricted when nerve involvement is severe or debilitating.

• 5

  Undergo surgery to remove or alter the parts of the spine that cause the pressure or misalignment. One of the most common surgeries removes the roof of the vertebrae around the affected area to create more room for the nerves. Surgery usually gives relief to some of the pain, but is often not a long-term fix, as degeneration continues.