Alternative Spinal Stenosis Treatment Options

Alternative (or complementary) spinal stenosis treatments are diverse medical and healthcare systems, practices, and products that are not presently considered to be part of conventional medicine. Examples of alternative spinal stenosis treatment methods include:

 

 

Chiropractic treatment is based on the philosophy that restricted movement in the spine reduces proper function and may cause pain. Chiropractors may manipulate (adjust) the spine in order to restore normal spinal movement. They may also employ traction, a pulling force, to help increase space between the vertebrae and reduce pressure on affected nerves. Some people report that they benefit from chiropractic care. Research thus far has shown that chiropractic treatment is about as effective as conventional, non-operative treatments for acute back pain.

 

 

Acupuncture involves stimulating certain places on the skin using a variety of techniques. In most cases, acupuncture involves manipulating thin, solid, metallic needles that penetrate the skin. Research has shown that lower back pain is one area in which acupuncture has benefited some people.

 

The effectiveness of these and other possible alternative spinal stenosis treatment methods is still being investigated. Healthcare providers may suggest these therapies in addition to more conventional treatments.