Canal stenosis is a spinal condition characterized by the narrowing of the spinal canal, the protective space that houses the spinal cord. Most often caused by degenerative changes in the spine, the narrowing of the spinal canal itself is not painful. Sometimes, however, the reduced space in the spinal canal causes a nerve root or the spinal cord to become compressed, which may result in pain, numbness or tingling in the extremities or muscle weakness.

Tips for living with canal stenosis

With the right combination of treatments, it is usually possible for patients with canal stenosis to lead meaningful lives with minimal interference from their condition. If you have recently been diagnosed with canal stenosis, here are five tips you can follow to improve your quality of life while living with this condition:

1. Follow your prescribed treatment plan closely to maximize its results.
2. Avoid any activities that could aggravate your condition. This may include strenuous exercise or laying in uncomfortable positions.
3. Promptly alert your physician of any new or worsening symptoms.
4. Carry any necessary pain medication with you so it is available if your symptoms flare up unexpectedly.
5. Make any necessary lifestyle modifications that could be worsening your condition. This may include maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption and quitting smoking.

When canal stenosis surgery becomes necessary

If you are still dealing with the symptoms of canal stenosis after several weeks or months of nonsurgical treatment, surgery may become necessary. Before subjecting yourself to the lengthy recovery time associated with open spine surgery, consult with the physicians at USA Spine Care. Since 2005, we have helped more than 75,000 patients reclaim their lives from neck or back pain by performing minimally invasive outpatient surgeries that have many advantages over traditional open spine surgery. For example, our procedures offer a reduced risk of infection and complication compared to open spine surgery.^{^}

If you would like to find out if you are a candidate for our procedures, contact USA Spine Care today and request a no-cost MRI review* from our team.