Relief for Spinal Stenosis Pain

What Is Spinal Stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is the narrowing or blocking of one or more spaces in the patient's spinal canal. Less space within the spinal canal cramps the spinal cord, stressing the nerves that branch off it. A tightened spinal canal may cause the nerves or spinal cord to become irritated, pinched or compressed, resulting in back pain and other nerve issues, such as sciatica. Severe spinal stenosis may also affect the urinary system and stomach, making it a serious health condition.

Injuries or medical conditions may result in spinal stenosis. Common spinal stenosis causes may include:

  • Bone spurs

  • Wear and tear of the spine

  • Herniated disks

  • Degenerative changes in younger people

  • Congenital spinal nerve deformity

  • Tumors

  • Genetic diseases affecting muscle development and tone

Spinal stenosis often develops gradually over time, and some patients may not exhibit symptoms even if the condition shows up on x-rays or other imaging systems. Symptoms may also affect each patient differently.

Why and How Does Spinal Stenosis Cause Pain?

The narrowing of the spine creates enough pressure on structures in the spine, causing the symptoms mentioned above. For most patients, spinal stenosis symptoms occur gradually. Some may exhibit no symptoms.

Again, the symptoms each patient experiences depend on the location of the spine narrowing and other factors. The severity and location of the narrowing determine the intensity of the pain experienced.

Nonsurgical Treatment Options for Spinal Stenosis

Severe spinal stenosis can cause chronic pain and symptoms that result in the patient seeking treatment options. Nonsurgical treatment options for spinal stenosis include:

  • Exercise, if the pain isn't severe and allows aerobic exercises, such as walking, swimming or riding a stationary bicycle

  • Nerve block

  • Oral drugs and medications to relieve pain and inflammation

  • Physical therapy

  • Weight loss

  • Trigger point therapy

  • Assistive devices, such as a cane or walker

  • Lumbar spine epidural steroid injections

  • Alternative therapies, such as chiropractic treatments, massage therapy or acupuncture

Mays & Schnapp offers several spinal stenosis treatment options. We also treat other chronic pain conditions using minimally invasive treatments. Contact us at (901) 747-0040 or reach out online to book an appointment. Two convenient locations serve the Mid-South with highly effective spinal stenosis management services.