Foraminal stenosis is a narrowing of the openings on the outside of your vertebrae that allow the passage of nerves down your spine. When these openings begin to narrow due to aging, degeneration or other conditions, pressure is placed on your nerves that can cause pain, weakness and a lack of mobility. By using the buoyancy of water to help alleviate some of the stress on your nerves, you can help reduce the pain associated with the condition, restore range of motion and improve your quality of life.
Knee to Chest
Stand in chest-deep water with your feet about shoulder wide and one arm holding onto the side of the pool. Bend one leg slightly and stretch the other out in front of you. Try to lift your leg as if you were going to place your knee on your chest. Be sure that you bend your outstretched knee as little as possible when doing this exercise. Hold this position for several seconds and then repeat on the other side. Perform this exercise for the number of repetitions prescribed by your doctor or therapist.
Wall Leg Stretch
This simple exercise helps elongate your body if you have experienced a period of time where you couldn't straighten your back completely. Stand facing the pool wall and place both hands on the wall. Allow the buoyancy of the water to lift your legs and trunk off the ground until you're in a "Superman" position with your legs and back extended behind you. Hold this position as directed by your doctor and repeat.
Pool Walking
Stand in chest-deep water and begin walking forward. Stop and walk backward until you have reached your starting point. This exercise is designed to help restore mobility in your hips, back and legs. It is also good for improving your circulation to allow blood to flow into the area where you are experiencing pain. You can make this exercise harder by adding light leg weights or hand floats for resistance while moving forward and backward.
Floating Paddle
If necessary, you may want a therapist or other assistant to help you perform this exercise. Begin floating on your back, or have your therapist support your body until you're floating on your back, and perform a paddling motion with both of your arms and legs. Continue this motion as directed by your doctor or therapist and repeat according to their instructions. You can perform this exercise by moving only your legs and allowing your arms to float freely if your doctor thinks this is necessary for your specific condition.
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