For the majority of people with canal stenosis, it’s possible to avoid surgery by developing an effective treatment plan that combines several conservative treatments. Sometimes, this takes a bit of trial and error — perhaps even a few weeks of exploration — but with the guidance of their physicians, many people are able to find options that provide them with adequate relief.

Initial treatment recommendations

Usually, the first recommended treatments include:

• Over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen
• Prescription painkillers, anti-inflammatory medications and/or muscle relaxants
• Physical therapy
• At-home stretching and strengthening exercises
• Heat therapy and cold therapy

Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco products and eating a produce-rich diet may also be recommended. While these recommendations can’t cure canal stenosis, they can enhance a person’s overall health and oftentimes help with neck or back pain.

Complementary and alternative therapies offer additional options

Additional options that aren’t considered “traditional” treatments can also provide a number of benefits. Some people turn to complementary and alternative therapies such as therapeutic massage, acupuncture, yoga and/or chiropractic care to supplement their canal stenosis treatment.

With a combination of traditional treatments, alternative therapies and lifestyle changes, many people are able to deal with their canal stenosis in a way that allows them to participate in their usual activities. However, there are some situations in which a person’s symptoms are so disruptive or unresponsive to nonsurgical treatment that surgery might be the appropriate next step.

At USA Spine Care, we understand that most people wish to avoid surgery unless it is absolutely necessary — and for good reason. Any operation should typically be considered a last resort. However, we perform minimally invasive surgeries that offer a number of advantages over traditional open neck or back operations.^{^} Our outpatient procedures have no lengthy recovery, and patients are ready to be up and walking on the same day as surgery.^{^} To find out if you are a good candidate for minimally invasive canal stenosis surgery, contact USA Spine Care today.