An overview of spinal stenosis
Spinal stenosis – one of the most common spinal disorders occur when the spinal canal is narrowed. The narrowing of the spinal canal may result from conditions like herniations or disc 
protrusions, growth of bone spurs in the canal (also known as osteophytes), abnormal movement of vertebral bodies and thickening of the ligaments within the canal. Spinal stenosis is a condition that is associated with age and affects people who are 60 years or more in age.
How a Back Doctor Diagnoses Spinal Stenosis
Back doctors usually start the diagnostic procedure with a thorough physical examination and study of signs and symptoms that the patient is suffering from. These symptoms include:
- Pain in the buttocks due to nerve compression
- Limping
- Back pain or spinal pain and difficulty in walking even short distances
- Weakness and numbness arms and legs
Once he suspects spinal stenosis, doctor usually order imaging tests like MRI scan, CT scan and X-rays to know the extent of the problem so that he can prescribe a treatment plan accordingly.
Treatment options for spinal stenosis
The most common treatment options for spinal stenosis include non-surgical regimens that include:
- Physical therapy and exercises – Includes specifically designed exercise programs like core strengthening exercises, range of motion exercises and flexibility exercises.
- Medications- These usually include anti-inflammatory medications, NSAIDs, pain killers, muscle relaxants as well as Opioids.
- Chiropractic manipulation- This procedure involves the realignment of spine to help the patient get relief from his discomfort.
Most of the time non-surgical treatment options are enough to provide the patient respite from his discomfort. However, sometimes these treatment options do nothing to help the patient. This is when surgery is considered as the viable treatment option.
Looking for the best treatment plan for spinal stenosis in Houston? Let us help you make the right decision for your spine by filling the form given above or by giving us a call at (888) 779-8716 today.
AN OVERVIEW OF SPINAL STENOSIS
Spinal stenosis – one of the most common spinal disorders occur when the spinal canal is narrowed. The narrowing of the spinal canal may result from conditions like herniations or disc protrusions, growth of bone spurs in the canal (also known as osteophytes), abnormal movement of vertebral bodies and thickening of the ligaments within the canal. Spinal stenosis is a condition that is associated with age and affects people who are 60 years or more in age.
HOW A BACK DOCTOR DIAGNOSES SPINAL STENOSIS
Back doctors usually start the diagnostic procedure with a thorough physical examination and study of signs and symptoms that the patient is suffering from. These symptoms include:
- Pain in the buttocks due to nerve compression
- Limping
- Back pain or spinal pain and difficulty in walking even short distances
- Weakness and numbness arms and legs
Once he suspects spinal stenosis, doctor usually order imaging tests like MRI scan, CT scan and X-rays to know the extent of the problem so that he can prescribe a treatment plan accordingly.
TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR SPINAL STENOSIS
The most common treatment options for spinal stenosis include non-surgical regimens that include:
- Physical therapy and exercises – Includes specifically designed exercise programs like core strengthening exercises, range of motion exercises and flexibility exercises.
- Medications- These usually include anti-inflammatory medications, NSAIDs, pain killers, muscle relaxants as well as Opioids.
- Chiropractic manipulation- This procedure involves the realignment of spine to help the patient get relief from his discomfort.
Most of the time non-surgical treatment options are enough to provide the patient respite from his discomfort. However, sometimes these treatment options do nothing to help the patient. This is when surgery is considered as the viable treatment option.
Looking for the best treatment plan for spinal stenosis in Houston? Let us help you make the right decision for your spine by filling the form given above or by giving us a call at (888) 779-8716 today.