The treatment and management of spinal stenosis falls into two categories: conservative management or surgical interventions.

Conservative management does not involve surgical procedures to alleviate the symptoms of spinal stenosis. Conservative measures include the intake of pain killers such as the nonsteroidal anti - inflammatory drugs, or the NSAIDS and analgesics. The NSAIDs alleviate pains by blocking the release of prostaglandins, a hormone – like chemical that elicits pain and inflammation in your body. Analgesics, such as the acetaminophen increases your pain threshold.

Glucosamine is needed to form and repair cartilages but its production decreases with age. That is why, glucosamine supplements, in conjunction with chondroitin sulfate are usually given to impede the degeneration of the spinal cartilages. Chondroitin sulfate can also protect the destruction of the cartilage by the enzymes.

An epidural steroid injection is also given in cases of severe pains. Steroids can effectively relieve by suppressing inflammatory responses of your body and by blocking the formation of prostaglandins and leukotrienes, chemicals that cause tissue inflammations.

Bed rest can take the pressure off from the spine. A firm, comfortable mattress should be used as you elevate your feet or with support. Rest should be combined with gradual return of daily activities. It is greatly recommended to adhere to a regular exercise regimen to prevent back problems. Strength of the back and abdominal muscles is increased by stretching and strengthening exercises.

Surgery is only done when the conservative methods of treatment failed to control the symptoms and severity of spinal stenosis. Decompressive laminectomy is the technique most commonly done to treat spinal stenosis. The posterior part of the vertebrae is removed to enlarge the spinal canal, therefore providing more space for the spinal cord and spinal nerves. Thickened tissue or bone spurs are also removed to eliminate the cause of the compression. Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure which combines two or more vertebrae to form a new bone. A bone draft from the patient’s pelvis is used to cement and support the fusion of the bones. This procedure will eliminate the pain caused by movement of the vertebrae by immobilizing the vertebrae themselves.

What is Spinal Stenosis? ¦ Spinal Stenosis Treatment