Will Everyone Get Spinal Stenosis?
By Sara Butler
The chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic see many patients who struggle with spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the space within the spine. It's something that many people have concerns about, specifically if it's a condition that can be avoided or if it's a condition that inevitable for everyone as they get older. Here's what you need to know about spinal stenosis and how the chiropractors at The Joint can help.
Spinal Stenosis: What Is It?
When the space in the spine that encompasses the spinal cord narrows, then it can put pressure on the spinal nerves that exit the spinal cord. This narrowing is a condition called spinal stenosis and it normally occurs in the neck and lower back when it does strike.
The Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis
You need a chiropractor or doctor to diagnose spinal stenosis. The most common symptoms that can occur that may make you consider bringing this up to your chiropractor or doctor include:
- Issues with walking or balance
- Tingling
- Muscle weakness
- Pain such as neck or low back pain
- Numbness
The tingling, numbness, and pain that can occur as a result of spinal stenosis often occur in areas outside of the back such as the legs, arms, hands, and feet.
The Cause of Spinal Stenosis
Some people are simply born with a small spinal canal, but usually, spinal stenosis is something that occurs later in life. The reason for this is wear and tear from arthritis that can cause bone spurs that overgrow into the spinal canal. Other conditions such as herniated discs can cause spinal stenosis too, as well as spinal injuries and tumors.
Spinal stenosis does happen to people as they get older, but it's not a foregone conclusion -- not everyone will get this condition, especially if they ensure they care for their spine throughout their lives with the help of the chiropractors at The Joint.
How to Treat Spinal Stenosis
The treatment for spinal stenosis is an individual process, but in general physical therapy, targeted exercises, and stretches can help. Spinal decompression is the goal of many of the treatments and chiropractic treatments are available that can help.
Regular chiropractic care is key to keeping your spine healthy, hopefully helping you to avoid more serious issues as you get older, such as spinal stenosis. If you're worried about spinal stenosis, then talk to the chiropractors at The Joint today.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Greenwood Village, Colo.