What is Spinal Stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is a condition in which the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the arms and legs. It is most commonly caused by the natural aging process, but it can also be caused by injury, infection, or other medical conditions. Treatment for spinal stenosis may include medication, physiotherapy, and in some cases, surgery.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms can vary depending on the location of the narrowing in the spinal canal. In general, symptoms may include:
- Pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs
- Having trouble standing or walking for extended periods of time
- A feeling of cramping or stiffness in the legs
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- A feeling of weakness or heaviness in the legs
- A sensation of tingling or burning in the legs or feet
What are the causes of spinal stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is usually caused by the natural aging process, when the bones, ligaments, and other tissues in the spinal canal start to become stiffer and more brittle. Over time, this can lead to the narrowing of the spinal canal, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
Other causes include:
- Injuries or accidents that cause damage to the spine
- Infections or diseases that affect the spine, such as tuberculosis or syphilis
- Medical conditions that affect the bones and tissues of the spine, such as scoliosis or osteoarthritis
- Tumors or growths on the spine that cause pressure on the spinal cord and nerves
What does pain from spinal stenosis feel like?
The pain can vary depending on the location of the narrowing in the spinal canal. In general, pain may feel like:
- A dull, aching pain that spreads from the lower back to the buttocks and down the legs
- A sharp, shooting pain that radiates from the lower back down the legs
- A feeling of cramping or stiffness in the legs
- A burning or tingling sensation in the legs or feet
The pain may be worse when standing or walking for long periods of time and may be relieved by sitting or lying down.
What happens if it is left untreated?
If spinal stenosis is left untreated, it can lead to a number of serious complications, including:
- Chronic pain that can interfere with your ability to perform daily activities
- Loss of bladder or bowel control, which can affect your quality of life
- Loss of mobility or difficulty walking, which can make it difficult to move around or maintain your independence
- Loss of sensation in the legs or feet, which can lead to injuries or other complications
- Damage to the spinal cord or nerves, which can result in permanent paralysis or other serious health problems
It is important to see a doctor if you think you may have spinal stenosis so that you can receive proper treatment and avoid these complications.
Does walking help spinal stenosis?
Yes, walking can be beneficial for people with spinal stenosis. Walking can help to stretch and strengthen the muscles in the legs, which can relieve pressure on the spinal cord and improve symptoms. In addition, walking can help to improve blood flow to the spine, which can promote healing and reduce pain.
If you have spinal stenosis, it is important to talk to your physiotherapist before starting a new exercise program. Your physiotherapist can help you to develop an appropriate exercise plan that takes into account your symptoms and medical history.
What is the best sleeping position for spinal stenosis?
The best sleeping position for people with spinal stenosis is on their side with a pillow between their knees. This position can help to relieve pressure on the spine and reduce pain. You can also use a pillow to support your head and neck, to maintain the natural curvature of the spine.
If you are experiencing pain from spinal stenosis, it is also important to use a mattress that provides adequate support and cushioning. A firm mattress can help to distribute your body weight evenly, while a softer mattress can help to cushion pressure points.
Can physiotherapy help spinal stenosis?
Yes, In most cases physiotherapy can be beneficial for people with spinal stenosis. Physiotherapy can help to improve flexibility and strength in the muscles and ligaments of the spine, which can relieve pressure on the spinal cord and reduce symptoms. It can also help to improve posture and body mechanics, which can help to prevent further damage to the spine.
Physiotherapy Treatment of Spinal stenosis:
- Flexion-based exercise programs.
- Manual therapy.
- Lumbar isometric and stretching exercises.
- Static and dynamic postural exercises.
- Individualized muscle strengthening.
- Endurance exercises.
- Stabilization of abdominal and back muscles to avoid excessive lumbar extension.
- Ergonomic exercises.
- Aerobic Exercises.
