Spinal stenosis is a condition in which the spinal cord becomes pinched, often due to problems with vertebrae or the disks of the spine. Before surgery is used as a treatment, most patients will receive other, nonsurgical approaches.
Pain Relievers
One of the mainstays of spinal stenosis treatment is the use of pain medications, the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disorders explains. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, which include aspirin, naproxen and ibuprofen, are commonly used. Acetaminophen is another option for treating spinal stenosis pain.
Physical Therapy
The goal of physical therapy is to build up the muscles in the back, which can help support the spine, relieving the pressure on the spinal cord that spinal stenosis causes. Physical therapy can also improve a patient's posture and relieve pain, the Mayo Clinic notes.
Injections
Certain medications can be injected directly into the affected parts of the spine. Cortisone injections into the affected region of the spinal cord can help reduce inflammation, which will in turn relieve pain and swelling in the region. Anesthetics can also be injected into nerves to numb them and reduce pain, NIAMS states.
