Spinal stenosis treatment can be surgical or non-surgical in nature. Common non-surgical options include analgesics, injections, and physical therapy. If there is no severe or progressive nerve involvement, a doctor may prescribe one of these treatment options. However, if non-surgical spinal stenosis treatment does not work to relieve pain, surgery may be recommended instead, especially if there is numbness that interferes with walking.
Internists, general practitioners, rheumatologists (those who treat arthritis), and neurologists (those who treat nerve diseases) can give non-surgical spinal stenosis treatment. Orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons can also provide non-surgical spinal stenosis treatment, and they may also perform spinal surgery if it is required. Allied health professionals, such as physical therapists, may also help to treat the condition.
Non-Surgical Spinal Stenosis Treatment Options
In the absence of severe or progressive nerve involvement, a doctor may prescribe one or more of the following spinal stenosis treatments:
Corticosteroid injections into the outermost of the membranes covering the spinal cord and nerve roots to reduce inflammation and treat acute pain that radiates to the hips or down a leg.
Anesthetic injections, known as nerve blocks, near the affected nerve to temporarily relieve pain.
Restricted activity (varies depending on extent of nerve involvement).
Prescribed exercises and/or physical therapy to maintain motion of the spine, strengthen abdominal and back muscles, and build endurance -- all of which help stabilize the spine. Some patients may be encouraged to try slowly progressive aerobic activity, such as swimming or using exercise bicycles.
A lumbar brace or corset to provide some support and help regain mobility. This approach is sometimes used for patients with weak abdominal muscles or older patients with degeneration at several levels of the spine.
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