Spinal stenosis is a condition in which certain parts of your spinal column narrow, causing pressure on your spinal cord or nerve roots, which branch off your spinal cord. Spinal stenosis, states the National Center for Biotechnology Information, is more common among seniors, due to increased shrinkage of your spinal disks and arthritis-induced bony growth in your spinal column. Dietary supplements may be helpful in treating or preventing your spinal stenosis, but you should always visit your doctor before ingesting supplements.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is most commonly experienced by men and women over the age of 50, notes the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Certain young people -- especially people born with a narrow spinal canal or who experience significant spine trauma -- may also develop this condition. Some of the most common signs and symptoms associated with spinal stenosis include numbness; cramping or pain in your neck, back and upper or lower extremities; and leg or arm weakness. Symptoms are usually worse with standing or walking.
Helpful Supplements
Some of the most helpful dietary supplements in treating your spinal stenosis target the inflammation and other effects of arthritis, which is one of the leading causes of spinal stenosis. Examples of these supplements, notes Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," include glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, bromelain, essential fatty acids, MSM, boron, garlic and shark cartilage. Some supplements that have historically been used for this health purpose may require further scientific testing.
Supplement in Focus
Bromelain may be one of the most effective dietary supplements in treating or preventing spinal stenosis. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, arthritis-induced spinal stenosis, or narrowing, is one of the leading causes of back pain and may respond to certain dietary supplements, including bromelain. The center recommends a dosage of 250 mg of bromelain, twice per day. Bromelain is an enzyme extracted from the stems of pineapples, and it helps reduce both inflammation and pain.
Warning
Spinal stenosis is a serious condition that may cause significant pain and impair your ability to perform your activities of daily living. If you are diagnosed with spinal stenosis, meet with your general practitioner to review all relevant treatment strategies, including natural treatment methods such as dietary supplemenation. Certain supplements may trigger allergic reactions and should not be taken if you have other health problems. Ask your doctor about the merits and drawbacks of supplements before ingesting these powerful natural substances.
References
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Spinal Stenosis
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: Spinal Stenosis
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Low Back Pain
