Canal stenosis, or the narrowing of the spinal canal, is a common condition that afflicts millions of individuals. Any number of causes can result in the constriction of the spine’s inner column, including traumatic injuries such as falls as well as more gradual, accumulative injuries that are part of the natural aging process. As people get older, a lifetime of wear and tear can cause vertebrae to shift out of proper alignment. Aging can also cause joints to degrade and the discs between vertebrae to become torn or inflamed. Any of these injuries can narrow the spinal canal, but it’s only when this constriction puts pressure on a nerve, nerve root or the spinal cord that pain, numbness, weakness or tingling develops as a result.

A variety of approaches can be taken when considering canal stenosis treatment options, depending upon the underlying cause of the narrowing and the severity of a patient’s symptoms. In many cases, pain can be effectively managed through conservative options that may include the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen or indomethacin to relieve pain and inflammation. Other nonsurgical approaches include daily stretches and exercises, weight loss, physical therapy, corticosteroid injections and wearing a lumbar brace. If conservative treatments are not enough to provide effective and lasting relief from symptoms of canal stenosis, you may be a candidate for surgery. USA Spine Care specializes in a number of minimally invasive outpatient surgeries that are a safer and effective alternative to traditional open back procedures.^

Whether through conservative or surgical approaches, the successful treatment of canal stenosis can result in diminished pain in the neck, back and limbs, as well as improved flexibility and a greater range of motion. This improvement usually allows patients to resume many of the activities they were forced to curtail as a result of their chronic discomfort, including:

• Regular workouts
• Hiking
• Yard work
• Golfing
• Playing with children or grandchildren
• Bicycling
• Long drives
• Swimming
• Household chores
• Working

If you are coping with chronic neck or back pain caused by canal stenosis, contact USA Spine Care today. We will be happy to provide more information about any of the minimally invasive procedures we offer.

Browse Related Resources