Coast Chiropractic Dr. Speaks About Spinal Stenosis and Non-Surgical Care
May 31, 2021 -- Posted by :It’s common to see older adults with a slumped posture, and though there are many possible reasons for this, perhaps the most common cause is a condition called spinal stenosis.
The Mayo Clinic notes that spinal stenosis can result from wear-and-tear that narrows the spinal disks. This narrowing can place pressure on the nerve roots as they exit the spine prior to traveling down into the legs. The symptoms—which can include pain, numbness/tingling, and weakness—typically come on gradually and may worsen over time. The spinal stenosis patient may feel more comfortable by leaning or bending forward as this posture opens the holes in the spine (the foramen), taking pressure off the nerves.
Because spinal stenosis is a condition caused by wear and tear, some individuals may be at more risk than others, especially those with a history of spinal/disk injury, heavy labor, poor nutrition, or obesity.
The good news is that patients with spinal stenosis can benefit from non-surgical approaches!
In a 2019 randomized trial involving 259 seniors with spinal stenosis, researchers compared the effectiveness of three approaches: medical care (including epidural steroid injections), group-based exercise, or manual therapy (spinal mobilization performed by a doctor of chiropractic) with individualized exercise (stretches and strength training).
While participants in the medical care and exercise-only groups reported some benefits, the research team noted that the patients in the manual therapy plus individualized exercise group experienced greater improvements with respect to pain, function, and walking ability.
The “take-home” message here is that in all three measured outcomes—pain, function, and walking ability—the chiropractic approach did the BEST! If you suffer from spinal stenosis and its associated symptoms and walking limitations, PLEASE consider chiropractic not only as an option but perhaps as this study points out the BEST option!
So, if you are experiencing back pain and type in chiropractor near me or pain management near me, you may find Coast Chiropractic Centers with Dr. Timothy Harcourt, me, comes up. You may wonder, “Do I need an MRI scan of my back.” Also, if you feel leg pain it may indicate things are getting worse and may indicate a bulge on the disc or worse yet a herniated disc in your back. Some people will try stretching the lower back first to see if they get relief. Pain very low in the lower back may be originating from the coccyx or tailbone. A pulled muscle in the back generally will get better with rest. Persistent or worsening pain intensity and/or frequency necessitates a visit to see a professional. Call me, Dr. Tim Harcourt, at (239) 278-3344 and mention this article for an awesome discounted first visit to include history, exam, and adjustment or Class IV high-intensity laser treatment.