Spinal Stenosis Treatments

It is recommended that non surgical spinal stenosis treatment should initially be attempted for 6-8 weeks before surgery is considered an option. Treating the condition that is causing the stenosis in the spine through conservative methods has high rates of success.

Initial treatment of spinal stenosis acts to treat the acute injury. Rest, ice packs, and non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs help to relieve inflammation in the early stages of injury. 48 - 72 hours after the injury, heat should start to be applied to stimulate blood flow and encourage healing in the area.

Other treatments such as physical therapy or chiropractic manipulation may be recommended in more moderate to severe cases. Acupuncture may also be attempted to relieve pain and soreness.

When putting together a treatment plan for your spinal stenosis, the condition of your spine and the impact your symptoms have on your daily life are taken into consideration, as some people will have severe symptoms while others with similar spinal narrowing will only experience mild symptoms of stenosis. With our guidance, you will receive proper treatment.

When to Consider Spinal Stenosis Surgery

Surgery for spinal stenosis should be only considered once all conservative methods of treatment have been exhausted. In a few rare cases where the patient is experiencing numbness or muscle weakness interfering with their ability to walk or if they are having problems with bowel or bladder function, immediate surgical intervention may be required.

Spinal Stenosis Surgery Procedures

Endoscopic Discectomy:

The patient is brought to the operative room, and intravenous sedation is administered. Under local anesthesia, a small metal tube, the size of a pencil, is inserted into the troublesome lumbar spine area under x-ray fluoroscopy guidance. This tube serves as a passage for the surgical tools so that the patient’s muscles do not have to be torn or cut, as opposed to what happens in a more traditional open discectomy.

Endoscopic Foraminotomy:

This is a procedure performed to widen the foramen, a small opening in the spine through which a nerve root leaves the spinal canal. A foraminotomy is a minimally invasive procedure, during which a small incision is made and an endoscope is used to see your spine and its supportive structures.

Upon completion of both the Endoscopic Discectomy and the Foraminotomy, the patient is encouraged to walk around and is free to leave the surgical center with a companion the same day.