Responsible Spinal Stenosis Treatment in Arizona

Spinal stenosis — narrowing of the spinal canal — compresses the spinal nerve roots resulting in muscle weakness, numbness, and pain. It is caused by degenerative changes in the spine, including osteoarthritis. The goals of spinal stenosis treatment are to improve sensory and motor function, reduce pain, remove pressure from the spinal nerves, and manage other symptoms.

Spinal stenosis treatment in Arizona at Dignity Health often follows a series of steps called a “ladder” approach. They include physical therapy, medications, corticosteroid injections, and surgery. Your doctor will make a concerted effort to treat your symptoms using conservative treatments before trying surgical repairs. Call (650) 724-3660 or Find a Doctor online who specializes in spinal stenosis pain relief.

Dignity Health provides neurological care for spinal stenosis symptoms and other spine disorders at: 

 

Physical Therapy for Spinal Stenosis

Physical therapy does not stop the progression of arthritis or narrowing of the spinal canal. However, it can improve strength and flexibility in the muscles that support the spine. Exercises that help you maintain good posture can reduce pain by taking pressure off the spinal nerves.

 

Spinal Stenosis Medications

Your doctor may recommend medications to reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation, including:

  • Prescription anti-inflammatory medications such as methylprednisolone
  • Muscle relaxers
  • Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID)s, including naproxen and ibuprofen
  • Narcotic pain relievers

 

Corticosteroid Injections for Spinal Stenosis

If your spinal stenosis symptoms do not improve with physical therapy or medication, your doctor may recommend spinal injections. During this procedure, the doctor injects a corticosteroid along with a numbing agent into the small space next to your spinal cord. These injections can relieve pain for weeks or months.

 

Spinal Stenosis Surgery

Sometimes surgery is necessary to reduce pressure on the spinal nerves and relieve symptoms. These procedures include:

 

Understanding Your Treatment Options at Dignity Health

In addition to your specific symptoms, your treatment options for spinal stenosis depend on your personal preferences and overall health. All therapies, including injections and medications, have risks. Your doctor will tell you about the relative benefits and risks of each treatment and will work with you to develop a plan that meets your needs.

Dignity Health offers a range of conservative, minimally invasive, and surgical options for spinal stenosis treatment in Arizona.