Pain in the back and legs and leg weakness are all symptoms of spinal stenosis, a condition resulting from a narrowing of the spinal canal. When the canal becomes too narrow, the nerves in the spinal column become squeezed and lead to the aforementioned symptoms. The most common causes of this condition include bulging discs and arthritic spurs, both of which compress the nerves in the spinal canal. This condition occurs most frequently among older adults.
Step 1
Exercise. Charles Ray, M.D. of Spine-Health explains that exercise is one of the most common non-surgical treatments for spinal stenosis. An appropriate exercise program is a vital aspect for any treatment program, and while spinal stenosis exercises are not a cure-all, it is important for you to stay as active as you can tolerate. A physical therapist should be the one to devise your individual routine, as every person's medical situation varies. This may include curl-ups and stretching.
Step 2
Modify your daily activities. Most patients with spinal stenosis are more comfortable when in the forward position. Examples of modifications include walking bent over on a walker or with a cane. Instead of taking a walk, ride a stationary bike. These allow you to lean forward, thus relieving the compression on your nerves.
Step 3
Go for epidural steroid injections. As MayoClinic.com explains, nerve roots can become inflamed and swollen in the area or areas where the injury, or pinching, is occurring. Injecting a corticosteroid into the area of the constriction helps reduce the inflammation, pain and pressure. The drawback is that these injections may possibly weaken nearby bones and tissues; for this reason only a few injections per year are allowed.
Step 4
Talk to the doctor about surgery. In the end, when all conservative treatments have failed, surgery may be an option. The doctor may also take into consideration your overall health and whether or not your symptoms are disabling you. The basic goal of surgery is to relieve the pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots. While surgery is effective for most people, reducing symptoms, in a few cases symptoms remain the same or become worse.
