The Role of Therapy in Treating Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a condition in which the spaces within your spine narrow, and this puts pressure on the nerves that travel through the spine. When the spinal canal tightens, it leads to pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs and lower back. Physical therapy is a standard approach to managing the symptoms associated with this condition. Here is more information about the role of physical therapy for treating spinal stenosis:
Increasing Range of Motion
Therapy helps address the stiffness that accompanies spinal stenosis. Gentle stretching is a significant component of a treatment plan. While you perform these exercises, your flexibility may gradually improve. A specialist typically instructs you on the proper form to use for each movement, and this helps you perform the stretches safely and effectively at home.
Regularly performing these movements helps maintain joint mobility. A medical professional can also incorporate specific manual techniques to help mobilize the spine and surrounding joints. To do this, you may learn how to move in ways that support your back. This education enables you to manage your symptoms independently, and the goal is to make daily movements easier and less restrictive.
Reducing Pain
Pain management is a primary focus of physical therapy for spinal stenosis, and a pain specialist can guide you through exercises designed to alleviate discomfort. These movements are designed to lessen the pressure on your spinal nerves, which is a typical source of pain. Your therapist will create a specific program for you, and the techniques aim to reduce inflammation around the spinal nerves.
Improving Mobility
Since improving your ability to move is another objective of therapy, specialists might focus on functional movements you use every day. You can practice actions such as standing up from a chair or walking. These exercises are designed to alleviate symptoms, and they can be tailored to your specific challenges and goals.
A pain specialist observes your movement patterns to identify areas for improvement. Based on this observation, they create an exercise plan. The plan may include activities to improve your balance and coordination, and you can work on walking with a more stable gait. A specialist provides support as you progress through your program.
Better mobility may allow for greater independence in daily life. A program might teach you safer ways to bend and lift, which aims to reduce strain on your spine. You might learn how to pace your activities, and this knowledge helps you stay active without increasing your symptoms.
Strengthening Muscles
When needed, a targeted exercise program helps build strength in the muscles that support your spine. These muscles include your abdominal, back, and hip muscles, and a strong core provides better support for your spine. Your therapy plan might include:
- Core stabilization exercises
- Leg strengthening movements
- Muscle activation
When these supporting muscles are strong, they can reduce the load on your spinal column. This helps decrease the pressure on your nerves; strong muscles also help you maintain proper posture. A medical provider can teach you exercises with minimal equipment.
Get Therapy for Spinal Stenosis
Physical therapy offers a structured approach to managing spinal stenosis symptoms. A specialist can develop a personalized plan based on your specific condition and needs. This plan will evolve as you make progress and you learn strategies to manage your condition for the long term. If you are experiencing symptoms of spinal stenosis, schedule a consultation to discuss your therapy options.
