Spinal Stenosis Treatments

Non-Surgical Treatment for Spinal Stenosis

Many people believe that back conditions such as spinal stenosis can only be treated through surgical treatment. The truth however, is that only less than 5% of people diagnosed with spinal stenosis are considered for spinal surgery. Doctors will only consider surgery as the final option after trying other non-surgical treatments for spinal stenosis.

There are several non-surgical options for the treatment of spinal stenosis. Many of these therapies are used in combination for more effective results.

Medication is one such therapy.
There are several therapeutic drugs available for the
treatment of spinal stenosis.

Drugs are used for symptomatic treatment i.e. they only treat the symptoms of the condition and do not eliminate the disease in itself. They only serve to relieve the effects of the disease such as inflammation, pain and muscle spasms. Several drugs are available over the counter while others are only available as prescriptions. Over the counter drugs should not be used alone but in combination with prescription drugs. It should be noted that over the counter drugs have serious side effects and should be avoided if possible.

There are injections available for the spinal stenosis treatment. Like medication, injections are used for symptomatic treatment. The most common injection used in the treatment of this condition is an epidural injection. The term epidural refers to the space at the nerve roots. The injection is administered in the spine at the root of specified roots. The drug administered is a steroid that alleviates the inflammation around the spine. The injection also serves to relieve the pain that radiates from the back to the legs and to the arms. Only three injections are usually given. However, the injections are not administered all at once but over a course of several weeks.

Physical therapy is one of the most highly recommended
spinal stenosis therapies.

Physical therapy involves a combination of inactive and active therapy. Inactive therapy involves the use of ice packs, heat, ultrasound, massage and electrical stimulation. Inactive therapy is used to prepare patients for active therapy by relaxing tight muscles and relieving pain. Active therapy involves the use of therapeutic exercises. To stabilize the spine, increase flexibility and develop strength and endurance.

Spinal Stenosis Treatments
Non-Surgical Treatment for Spinal Stenosis
Article published January 6^th, 2011
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