Spinal stenosisis the term used to describe a narrowing spine.
Anywhere along the spine can be affected.
Several treatment options are available, each tailored to the individual depending on the symptoms' severity.
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This article discusses the treatment options for spinal stenosis.
MoMo Productions / Getty Images
What Are the Common Spinal Stenosis Treatment Options?
Like many other conditions, spinal stenosis has several primary treatment options.
These are often the first choice among people with the disease.
They include:
Medications
Chronic painis one of the main symptoms of spinal stenosis.
Because of that, the first-line treatment often involves using analgesics or pain-relieving medications.
One of the most commonly prescribed medications is nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs).
These medications reduce pain and inflammation in the body.
That said,NSAIDs are not suitable for long-term use.
In turn, pain and mobility can be improved.
Since people with the condition are at a higher risk of obesity, regular exercise can reduce this risk.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapyis another primary treatment for those with spinal stenosis.
It is often used alongside pain medications.
Research has found that physical therapy following surgery can reduce recovery times.
Back Braces
Back bracesare wearable belt-like devices that help to reduce movement and pressure on the spine.
Over time, back braces can lead to a positive increase in mobility for people with spinal stenosis.
They are considered nonsurgical medical procedures.
According to research, injections are an effective way to combat pain for two weeks up to six months.
Some research has found that relief after a spinal injection can last 24 months.
How Many People Get Spinal Injections?
Decompression Procedure for Thickened Ligaments
Some people may undergo a decompression procedure for spinal stenosis.
It involves the use of a thin needle-like tool.
Research has found that this procedure may reduce symptoms and the need for more invasive surgery.
That said, both options are viable and can improve mobility and pain.
These treatments are meant to improve symptoms when used with other viable therapies, not necessarily on their own.
The procedure is designed to relieve tension in certain areas.
Stem Cell Therapy
Stem cell therapy usesstem cellsto help repair injured or diseased tissue within the body.
When a person has spinal stenosis, it can lead to soft tissue damage within the body.
Stem cell therapy can help repair or improve the damaged areas, leading to symptom relief.
What Are Stem Cells?
Stem cells are the cells in the body from which all other cells originate.
The gadget is implanted into the back during a surgical procedure.
Lumbar Interspinous Distraction Decompression
Anothersurgical procedure used for spinal stenosisis the lumbar interspinous distraction decompression.
This reduces movement which could put pressure on the nerves underneath the spine.
Because of that, there is little research on how these therapies will work in the long run.
Any risks associated with the new treatments continue to be investigated as time goes on.
Surgery for Spinal Stenosis
There are several surgeries available for spinal stenosis.
Some possible surgical routes of treatment include:
For some, minimally invasive surgery may help to relieve symptoms.
These types of surgeries involve smaller incisions and a medical tube gear.
The tube is placed into the small opening to create a tunnel to the area of the spine affected.
Types of surgeries mentioned above that can be minimally invasive include discectomy, laminectomy, and spinal fusion.
What Are the Risks of Surgery?
Spinal stenosis surgeries are often regarded as safe, but there aresome risksto be aware of beforehand.
They can include:
Will You Need More Than One Spinal Stenosis Surgery?
If thats the case, a person may need a second surgery to reduce the new or worsened symptoms.
Which Treatment Is Right for Me?
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment.
Each approach caters to the individual.
Can Spinal Stenosis Get Better Without Treatment?
That said, if it is causing symptoms and other damage within the spine, treatment is necessary.
Summary
Spinal stenosis treatments vary widely because no two cases are the same.
You may also explore alternative therapies that can complement your treatment.
In the most severe cases, surgery is likely necessary to resolve any nerve compression and relieve symptoms.
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