Stenosis Treatment

Spinal Stenosis Treatment in USA

The methods used to treat spinal stenosis in the USA can be broadly divided into two categories: conservative treatment methods and aggressive treatment. Clinicians in the US will normally recommend a conservative treatment method before opting for aggressive treatment except for an emergency case.

Conservative treatment methods are non invasive treatment options. Medication is used to relive pain. Medication includes the use of analgesics which relieve pain, non steriodal ant inflammatory drugs (NAIDS) which counter the effects of inflammation including pain and corticosteroid injections which are also anti inflammatory.

Physical therapy is used to stabilize the spine. Special exercises and chiropractic adjustments are used to strengthen the muscles and ligaments supporting the spine. The exercises build strength and muscle endurance. Physical therapy however, only relieves some of the pain.

Conservative treatments may also involve the use of a form of support. Patients may be required to wear a lumbar brace or corset to provide the spine with extra support. Patients may also be required to use walking sticks or crutches to reduce the pressure being placed on the spinal column.

Aggressive treatments include surgical procedures. In the past invasive surgical procedures were commonly used when the surgical option became necessary for the treatment of spinal stenosis. The procedure resulted in the damaging of vital large muscle groups and soft tissue. In recent years, advances in science and technology have allowed for the development of minimally invasive surgical procedures for the treatment of spinal stenosis.

Cervical Endoscopic Foraminotomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure involving the removal of an ulcinate (small piece of enlarged bone) from the spinal canal using a micro instrument. This results in the opening up of the spinal canal. The micro instrument is inserted into the spinal canal through an endoscope (small tube). Laser treatment is used for bone spurs, herniated discs and scars within the spinal canal. This is an outpatient procedure.

Endoscopic lumbar discectomy is also a minimally invasive procedure involving the use of an endoscope. The portion of the disc causing the problem is either treated using a laser or removed using a micro instrument.

Stenosis Treatment
Spinal Stenosis Treatment in Canada.
Article published February 11^th, 2011
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