Spinal Stenosis Treatment in Virginia 

If left untreated, spinal stenosis can lead to paralysis or nerve damage. It can also affect one’s ability to move their legs. If you’re suffering from chronic back pain, then you might be diagnosed with spinal stenosis. Unfortunately, most people who seek treatment end up having surgery. 

Despite the advancements in surgical techniques over the years, spinal surgery remains a risky and expensive procedure. Many people who have been diagnosed with spinal stenosis are choosing to treat their condition through alternative therapies. 

What is Spinal Stenosis? 

The spinal system is composed of a series of 24 bones known as vertebrae. These bones support the body’s core and spinal cord. There are also openings in the spinal canal. 

When these spaces become narrow, they can cause pressure on the nerve roots and spinal vertebrae. This condition can lead to nerve damage and inflammation, and the affected nerve roots can eventually become scarred. 

Symptoms 

The narrowing of the spinal spaces can occur at any point in the back. The symptoms of spinal stenosis can vary depending on the location and severity of the condition. They can manifest gradually over time or they can appear suddenly. Some of the symptoms may include weakness or a feeling of urgency when performing certain activities. 

Pain 

The most common locations where spinal stenosis can occur are the lower back and the cervical spine. The symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the condition. For some, it can start as a dull and localized pain that can be felt between the shoulders and the lower back. It can then get worse and affect other areas. 

Loss of Sensation or Tingling 

In rare cases, patients with spinal stenosis do not experience any pain. Instead, they can feel a tingling or numb sensation in their affected areas. This can affect different parts of the body. This usually happens around the spinal canal and the affected nerve roots. 

Weakness 

The spinal system is composed of a series of bones that support the body’s core and spinal cord. The brain is responsible for sending and receiving messages from the muscles. If the nerves are damaged or not working properly, the brain can’t receive the necessary information. 

This condition can also affect the function of the spinal nerve roots. For instance, it can cause nerve roots to become compressed, which can lead to incontinence or urinary tract issues. 

What causes Spinal Stenosis? 

Spinal stenosis is most usually caused by degenerative conditions. Such as: 

Osteoarthritis 

Osteoarthritis causes the cartilage in the spinal column to wear down, and this can put pressure on the nerve roots and spinal cord. It can also cause bone spurs to form. These spurs can then rub against one another, causing the bones to rub together. 

Degenerative Disc Disease 

As the bones between the vertebrae become dehydrated, the spaces between them become smaller, which can cause nerve roots to become compressed. Disc disease can also cause nerve roots to become damaged, which can put pressure on the spinal cord. 

Ligament Thickening or Buckling 

The various connective tissues that surround the spinal canal are responsible for supporting the structure and function of the spinal system. When these tissues become damaged or thicken, they can compress the spinal cord and nerve roots. Some genetic diseases can also cause these tissues to buckle or loosen, which can create a narrow point in the spinal canal. 

Other conditions such as tumors and spinal deformities can also cause spinal stenosis to occur. It can sometimes be caused by an injury. For instance, it can affect the spinal cord and nerve roots after a vertebra has been fractured or dislocation. 

How can a Chiropractor treat your Spinal Stenosis? 

If you are suffering from spinal stenosis and are not satisfied with the results of surgery, chiropractic treatment is a great alternative. This type of therapy is safe and effective, and most patients start seeing an improvement within the first couple of months. In addition to being able to treat the condition, a chiropractor can also use various techniques to improve the quality of life of his or her patients. 

Physical Therapy 

One of the most important factors that a Chiropractor can consider when it comes to treating spinal stenosis is your physical fitness. Poor posture can lead to stress and strain on the spinal system, which can worsen your symptoms. This is why regular exercise is often performed to improve the quality of life of patients. Aside from being able to improve the overall function of the spinal system, regular physical therapy can also help prevent further injury. 

Chiropractor Treatment 

The goal of a Chiropractor is to restore the proper alignment of the spine by performing manual manipulation and specialized equipment. This type of therapy can help the nerves and spinal cord get back to their normal state. 

Regenerative Medicine 

In addition to being able to treat the condition, a Chiropractor can also use various techniques to improve the quality of life of his or her patients. One of the most important factors that a Chiropractor can consider when it comes to treating spinal stenosis is the use of stem cells. This type of therapy can help the body’s natural ability to heal itself by developing specific cells that are capable of repairing damaged tissue. 

Spinal Stenosis Treatment with Primary Health Center Chiropractic 

If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort from Spinal Stenosis, our team at Primary Health Center Chiropractic can help. Our service page outlines various treatment options that may be able to provide relief. Give us a call today to schedule a consultation.