How To Manage Pain and Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis

Patients who have back pain know that it can be very disruptive to their lifestyle and ability to function normally throughout an average day. Spinal stenosis is one of the most common causes of back pain, affecting up to half a million Americans. Learn how to manage the pain and symptoms of spinal stenosis from a pain doctor at Reno Tahoe Pain Associates in Reno, NV.

What Is Spinal Stenosis?

The spine is made up of the spinal cord (nerves that are connected to the brain), vertebrae (protective bones), and the spinal canal (space between bones in the spine). When the spaces in the spine begin to narrow and press against the spinal cord, spinal stenosis is a condition. The damage to the nerve is what causes intense pain in the back. Spinal stenosis can happen at any location on the spine but is most common in the lumbar (lower back) and cervical areas (back of the neck).

Managing Pain and Other Symptoms

Aside from pain, the other symptoms of spinal stenosis include a burning sensation that can extend down to the legs and thighs, numbness, and weakness. It can affect how you walk and your posture when standing or sitting. Some patients attempt to manage these symptoms at home by taking NSAID medications for pain and doing targeted exercises, including yoga, to help relieve the pressure on the nerves. However, more effective results for spinal stenosis symptoms are possible when you see a Reno, NV, pain doctor.

Spinal Stenosis Treatment Options from a Doctor

When you visit a doctor, the initial diagnosis of spinal stenosis is made using an X-ray or similar scan. Once it is diagnosed, you’ll explore the following treatment options with your doctor:

• Nerve Blocks (stops pain signals from the compressed nerves).
• Spinal cord stimulator (sends electrical currents to the spine that helps ease pain symptoms).
• Pain relief injections (trigger point, sacroiliac joint, facet joint and epidural steroid injections).
• Physical therapy.

Pain Relief for Your Aching Back

The back pain you’ve been struggling with for months or even years can be treated to give you relief. The sooner you seek help, the better. Call (775) 384-1127 today to have spinal stenosis diagnosed by Dr. Ali Nairizi at Reno Tahoe Pain Associates in Reno, NV.