Many patients with canal stenosis choose to explore alternative treatments as part of a comprehensive care plan. Alternative medicine is generally considered to be therapies and practices that are outside of mainstream medicine. Although there is disagreement among physicians and researchers about the effectiveness of alternative treatments, many patients report being able to find relief from pain and discomfort by complementing them with a more conventional canal stenosis treatment plan.

Finding the approach that works best for you should involve working closely with your primary care doctor to find reputable practitioners and to make sure any options you try are compatible with your current treatment.

Common alternative treatments for canal stenosis

Therapeutic massage, yoga and chiropractic care are some of the most common alternative therapies that patients utilize for canal stenosis-related pain. Massage therapy involves relieving muscle tension in the neck and back while professional sessions with a chiropractor can help increase joint mobility while lessening pain and discomfort. Many people also find that participating in regular yoga practice leads to stronger core and back muscles, as well as a better awareness of maintaining good posture through the spine.

Herbal remedies

Although over-the-counter and prescription pain medications remain the primary option for patients with canal stenosis-related discomfort, some patients also explore traditional herbal remedies when seeking a more natural alternative. Ginger is an anti-inflammatory agent, and spices such as turmeric and capsaicin may also provide pain-relieving benefits. However, certain herbal remedies may not be compatible with existing treatments, so patients should always ask their physician about potential interactions before making use of these options.

If surgery becomes an option

While alternative and conservative therapies help relieve canal stenosis symptoms and allow many people to return to a previous level of activity, they aren’t effective for everyone. Patients who are not able to obtain the relief they need from a full course of comprehensive treatment may be asked to consider surgery. If this is your situation, contact USA Spine Care before consenting to a highly invasive traditional open spine surgery. Since 2005 our board-certified surgeons⁺ have helped more than 75,000 patients find relief with minimally invasive spine surgery performed on an outpatient basis.

For more information and to get a no-cost MRI review* to determine if you are a potential candidate for one of our procedures, reach out to USA Spine Care today.