Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is a condition in which the area either around the spinal cord or spinal nerve narrows, causing compression of the involved nerves. This can result from spinal degeneration, spine trauma, disc herniations, arthritis, and bone tumors. It can occur in the neck and low back; it is very uncommon in the upper and mid back.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:

• Often is asymptomatic
• Localized pain to the neck/back that worsened with standing for a long time, but reduces with sitting and leaning forward
• Radiating pain in arms or legs
• Weakness
• Extremity numbness/tingling

HOW CAN PHYSICAL THERAPY HELP?

When participating in physical therapy for spinal stenosis, your PT will assess your strength, range of motion, joint mobility, muscle flexibility and extensibility, and nerve health. Treatment will include manual stretching, joint mobilizations, and soft tissue mobilizations. Your PT will give you exercises and stretches to help control your symptoms and improve your functional mobility. Lastly, your PT will provide you with a home exercise program to ensure quickest rehabilitation possible.