What Is Spinal Stenosis and Can MAT Help?
Lacey Spinal Stenosis: What is it and Treatments
Spinal stenosis is a condition that occurs when the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord. While many people will experience pain, numbness, and weakness in the arms and legs, others can experience long-term chronic pain issues. Physical therapy is one treatment option for spinal stenosis that can help relieve pain and improve function. This condition can have life-impacting adjustments but with proper treatment, many people who suffer from this can live with minimal to no pain.
What is Spinal Stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is a condition that occurs when the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord. This can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness in the arms and legs. Spinal stenosis most often affects people over the age of 50.
Physical therapy like Muscle Activation Technique is one treatment option for spinal stenosis that can help relieve pain and improve function. Specialists can work with you to develop an exercise program that includes stretching and strengthening exercises. They can also teach you how to properly manage your pain. If you are interested in trying physical therapy for your spinal stenosis. San Jose offers many physical therapists to help in your recovery journey.
How Spinal Stenosis Affects Your Way of Life
Spinal stenosis can have far-reaching effects on your lifestyle. The pain associated with this condition can make it difficult to do even simple activities like walking or standing for long periods of time. It may also limit your ability to exercise or work in certain jobs that require physical labor. In addition to physical effects, spinal stenosis can also cause emotional distress if it limits your social activities or reduces your overall quality of life.
How Spinal Stenosis Affects Your Body
Spinal stenosis affects different parts of the body depending on its location in the spine. Most commonly, it affects the lower back and legs; however, it can also occur in the neck area which will affect the arms and shoulders instead. Common symptoms include pain along the spine that radiates down into one or both legs; numbness and tingling in one or both arms; weakness in one side of the body; leg cramping; balance problems; and difficulty walking more than short distances.
Spinal stenosis is treatable and can impact the livelihood of people who suffer from it. Physical therapy is one of many treatment options for spinal stenosis that can help relieve pain and improve function. Other options may require pain medication or surgery – but no one wants that. If you are interested in trying physical therapy for your spinal stenosis, be sure to ask specific questions to your pain management specialist about your certain condition to get the best outcome.