Understanding Spinal Stenosis

Your vertebral column is made up of a series of connected bones. There needs to be adequate spacing between these bones to reduce shock and impact on your spinal nerves. Spinal stenosis occurs when these gaps shrink, putting pressure on your back.

Read on as Terrapin Care Center, your provider of reliable massage therapy and pain management services, explains everything you need to know about spinal stenosis.

What Causes It?

Arthritis is the leading cause of spinal stenosis. It causes cartilage breakdown, compromising the structural support in between your bones. Osteoarthritis, in particular, may cause spinal disc changes, ligament thickening and formation of bone spurs.

Back injuries, tumors and bone disorders can also compress your spinal cord and nerves. While spinal stenosis can afflict anyone at any age, individuals between the ages of 30 and 50 are at the highest risk.

What Are the Symptoms?

The condition is asymptomatic at first. As it progresses, the limited gaps in your bones will put additional pressure on your spinal nerves and roots. This may cause cramping, stiffness and back pain. You may also feel numb and weak.

Loss of bowel or bladder control is possible as well. You may have a hard time standing or walking. If you experience any of these symptoms, it may be best to visit your trusted pain management clinic. We’ll assess your condition and create a treatment program that may include physical therapy.

What Are the Treatments?

Spinal stenosis can reduce your quality of life without proper treatment. Exercises that improve your strength, balance and activity may be good for you. Some good examples are swimming, biking and brisk walking. Seeing a physical therapist can also help.

At Terrapin Care Center, we are a multi-disciplinary pain management and clinic that puts a premium on improving our clients’ well-being and quality of life. Our team is composed of highly skilled individuals who have spent years of chiropractic education and training. We also have extensive experience in structural rehabilitation that focuses on spinal correction.

Call us today at (301) 220-1930 to learn more about spinal stenosis and our recommended treatment options. You may also complete our contact form to request an appointment. We serve Silver Spring, MD, and the surrounding communities.