What's to Blame for Spinal Stenosis?
By Sara Butler
At The Joint Chiropractic, the chiropractors meet their fair share of patients with spinal stenosis. This condition is quite common and, as with most other issues, can be made worse by things you might be doing. It’s much easier to work to prevent spinal stenosis than it is to treat it once it becomes a larger problem. Here are some of the most common causes of spinal stenosis and what you may be able to do in the present to avoid it down the road.
What is it?
Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of your spinal canal. The space that separates your spinal cord and vertebrae closes off or gets small, which may cause pain. The type of pain you experience depends largely on what area of the spine is impacted, as well as what caused the joints and their surrounding structures to deteriorate in the first place.
The Major Causes
For many people, spinal stenosis is something that you may be predisposed for genetically. But for other people, lifestyle factors can play a big part in developing this condition over time. Some of the factors that can influence the development of spinal stenosis include:
- Degeneration – As you age, structures such as joints in your body can begin to degenerate and break down. You can try to offset this wear and tear by making sure to exercise regularly, drink plenty of water, eat a healthy diet, and seek regular chiropractic care. Doing these things will help promote healing and maximize your health.
- Arthritis – Osteoarthritis can contribute to the development of stenosis. There is no sure-fire way to prevent arthritis, but you can improve your chances by maintaining a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet, and exercise.
- Lifting techniques – If you have a poor lifting technique, then you may be setting your body up for injury and lifelong pain. Moving the wrong way just once may not cause long-term harm, but doing that movement again and again can lead to damage. Make sure that when you lift you use the power of your hips and legs to do so and keep your back straight. Talk to the chiropractor at The Joint for tips on proper lifting technique.
If you are already suffering from spinal stenosis, then it’s never too late for a chiropractic consultation. If you haven’t developed it yet, then make sure to see a chiropractor regularly in order to help you stay that way.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Wayne, N.J.