Preventing Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is non-reversible condition. That means that there is nothing that can be done to reverse the damage caused by this disease. Although surgical solutions are available for spinal stenosis, these treatments also come with side effects. It is therefore better to prevent the disease rather than to treat it.

Preventing Spinal Stenosis

First, you must ensure that you maintain healthy weight for your height. Excess weight places more pressure on the spinal column and especially on the intervertebral discs. This results in the bulging of these discs which in turn results in spinal stenosis. Regular physical exercise and a healthy diet can help to keep you at a healthy weight. If you do not have time for or cannot engage in strenuous exercises, include more physical activity in your daily routine such as walking for longer distances. Eating regular and well balanced meals will allow you to maintain a healthy weight.

Regular exercise also helps to strengthen your body. As you strengthen your body, you improve the functions of the systems within it including the immune system. This helps your body fight against any diseases that may result in spinal stenosis. It also helps your body recover faster from injuries that may have otherwise resulted in spinal stenosis.

Regular exercises also improve your body’s flexibility. Improved flexibility of the spinal column and improved strength in the muscles in the back help prevent degeneration of the spinal column. The joints and ligaments in the spinal column become stronger and more flexible and are therefore able to properly handle the strains of everyday activities.

An effective exercise regimen should include aerobics, strength and flexibility exercises,
aerobic exercises will help with the general fitness of the whole body.

Weight training will improve the strength in your back, legs and arms as well as keep your abdomen strong therefore offering more support for your back. Exercises such as jogging, swimming and hiking are recommended for all round fitness.
The final method for preventing spinal stenosis is using good body mechanics. This involves maintaining good posture while sitting, walking or carrying heavy objects

Preventing Spinal Stenosis
Detailed information regarding spinal stenosis.
Article published January 21^st, 2011
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