Foraminal stenosis often causes a variety of unpleasant symptoms, including pain, tingling, numbness and muscle weakness. This condition results from the narrowing of the foramina (small openings along each side of the spine), which in turn compresses the nerves that run through those openings. If you’re living with this condition, you’ve probably wondered whether you require surgery, and whether there are any nonsurgical steps you can take to relieve your pain before turning to a surgeon for help.

Many physicians view foraminal stenosis surgery as a last-resort option for patients living with this condition. Indeed, many people are able to alleviate their symptoms using conservative techniques without the need for surgery. Here are 11 options that you may want to explore before deciding to undergo surgery for foraminal stenosis:

1. Pain medication
2. Corticosteroid injections
3. Hot/cold therapy
4. Physical therapy
5. Exercise
6. Yoga
7. Stretching
8. Chiropractic treatment
9. Massage
10. Acupuncture
11. Periodic rest

As with any new treatment regimen, you’ll want to check with your physician before attempting any of the above techniques. Not every treatment works for every patient, and your physician will be able to tell you which methods offer the best chances of success based on your individual condition.

If you’ve tried these or other conservative treatment techniques but still weren’t able to achieve relief from your symptoms, we invite you to contact USA Spine Care. Our surgeons routinely perform foraminotomy procedures, during which they remove the material that is blocking the foramina, compressing nerve roots and causing pain. Plus, our minimally invasive procedures are a safer and effective alternative to traditional open back procedures.^ When you contact us, we’ll be happy to tell you more about our minimally invasive spine surgeries and help you receive a free MRI review* to see if you’re a candidate for treatment with us.

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