Spinal stenosis is a medical condition that can cause a great deal of pain or discomfort in some patients. You may be able to relieve your pain symptoms via therapeutic exercise. Exercises are relatively easy to complete and can be done in the comfort of your home. Speak to your doctor or a physical therapist for more information on exercises for the relief of spinal stenosis.
History
Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of one or more areas of your spine, most often in the neck or lower back. This narrowing of your spinal column can put pressure on the spinal cord and cause pain or discomfort in the patient. Depending on which nerves are affected, this condition can cause numbness in the limbs, neck or back. Age-related changes in the spine are a main cause of spinal stenosis onset.
Flexion
Lie on your back and gently pull your knees to the chest until a comfortable stretch in your back is felt. Hold this position for 30 seconds before releasing the hold and returning to starting position. Repeat this movement for four to six repetitions depending on your comfort level, as suggested on the Spine-Health website.
Pelvic Tilt
Strengthening your abdominal muscles can also be helpful in the treatment of spinal stenosis. Lie on your back and press your lower back into the floor by tightening the lower stomach muscles in your abdomen. Hold this position for 10 seconds before slowly releasing the hold and returning to starting position. Repeat this hold for eight to 10 repetitions, depending on your comfort level.
Hook March
While lying on your back, support your head with a pillow or towel placed directly behind your neck. Keep your knees bent with your feet flat on the floor and your arms to the side. Next, slowly move one knee to your chest before lowering your leg and repeating the movement with the other leg as if marching in place. Repeat this process for as many repetitions as your comfort level will allow.
Considerations
Stretching and strengthening exercises for spinal stenosis will not cure your condition and should not be used as an alternative to further medical treatment. Depending on your pain level, your doctor may also prescribe a pain reliever medication. In extreme cases of stenosis, surgical intervention may also be recommended by your doctor.
