Lumbar Stenosis

Lumbar Stenosis: Non-Surgical Treatments

Lumbar stenosis is a non-reversible condition. However, there are treatments that can reduce the severity of the condition. Many of these treatments are symptomatic. Although surgical treatment is available, it is usually recommended as a last resort or in emergency cases where lumbar stenosis is extreme and viewed as life threatening. Non-invasive treatments are first recommended. If the patient is not showing any signs of improvement within 4 - 6 weeks of conservative therapy, then surgical treatment is considered.

There are various non-surgical treatments for lumbar stenosis.

They are administered depending on the extent of damage caused by the lumbar stenosis. Activity modification is one such therapy. This involves modifying the way patients carry out their day to day activities such as walking. Patients may be advised to do some things differently or be provided with accessories to help them modify activities e.g. patients may be given canes or walkers to ease the pain if the doctor finds that the patient is most comfortable in a flexed position.

Spinal stenosis exercises are prescribed for the management of lumbar stenosis. A special set of exercises that concentrate on the muscles and joints in the lumbar region are prescribed. Exercise may include stretching, strength training and endurance training. Training on a stationary bike is highly recommended for strengthening the muscles in the lumbar region.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) including ibuprofen and aspirin are usually prescribed to patients diagnosed with lumbar stenosis. These drugs are effective against the effects of inflammation which usually accompanies the condition.

Epidural injections are also used in the treatment of lumbar stenosis. These take 15 - 30 minutes for the effects to be felt. Patients undergoing this type of therapy are usually out patients. The needle is administered into the epidural space (this is a space found within the spinal canal. The space lies between the tough inner membrane (dura mater) and the vertebrae that form the spine). The epidural injection contains an epidural steroid solution. This acts as a local anti-inflammatory agent. The epidural injection also includes other substances that act as local anesthetics that provide temporary pain relief.

Lumbar Stenosis: Non-Surgical Treatments
Learn about the benefits, risks, and success rates of a
non-surgical lumbar spinal stenosis treatment
Article published March 4^th, 2011
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