Spinal stenosis is a condition associated with advancing age. As people grow older, if they do not take care of their spine and are not leading an active and healthy lifestyle, their bones can begin to deteriorate and problems such as spinal stenosis can begin to show up. Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the inter-vertebral spaces in the spinal cord, which puts pressure on the nerves that branch outward from the spine and causes pain.
One of the major causes of this condition is advancing age. It is more common in men and women who are over the age of 50. Older people are also more likely to develop arthritis, which is a degenerative disease that wears away joints and cartilage. It can cause bone spurs and is a contributing factor to spinal stenosis.
What is spinal decompression?
Spinal decompression is a non-invasive, non-surgical treatment that gently stretches taking pressure off the compressed nerves and areas affected by spinal stenosis. The patient is strapped in and the straps are attached to a computer-guided machine that gently and precisely stretches out the bones in the spine to decompress the vertebrae. This pulling and separating of the bones in the spine allows oxygen and nutrients to flood into the once-compressed area, allowing it to begin the healing process.
What are the symptoms of spinal stenosis?
Symptoms sometimes appear slowly and worsen over time. They can include:
- Back or neck pain
- Numbness, weakness or pain in the arms and legs
- Shooting pain down the leg
- Foot pain
What are the treatment options?
Non-surgical treatment options include:
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Pain relievers
- Rest
- Physical Therapy
- Back brace to stabilize and protect the lower back
- Acupuncture
- Chiropractic treatments including spinal decompression
- Exercise
What can be done to prevent further chiropractic issues?
Leading a more active, healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced, nutrient-rich diet, lots of water and consistent exercise can help prevent many back problems.
Certain exercises, such as Yoga and Pilates, focus on strengthening the body's core strength and are good for keeping the spine limber and flexible. Moving and stretching keeps the spine mobile and helps prevent arthritis and spinal stenosis from developing. Swimming, bicycle riding, vigorous walking with swinging arms and moderate weight training will protect the spine by building up the muscles and supporting structures of the spine.
After a series of spinal decompression sessions, your Chiropractor may give you a series of exercises to do at home so that your back will continue to heal. You will want to maintain a consistent exercise routine to keep your back and the rest of your body in the best shape possible. Before you find a Chiropractor in Springfield, VA, do your research. Don't be afraid to ask for patient references or the amount of experience the chiropractor has.
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