What Are the Treatments for Lumbar Spondylosis & Mild Spinal Stenosis?
Lumbar spondylosis is a degenerative type of arthritis that affects the lumbar, or lower back, portion of the spine. Spondylosis is the most common cause of lumbar spinal stenosis, which is a narrowing of the spine in the lower back. This generally happens to adults over the age of 60 causing disability among the aging.
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Physical Therapy
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Conservative measures are typically the best for mild cases of lumbar spinal stenosis or LSS, and physical therapy is often advised. Physical therapy consists of stretching exercises, massage and strengthening of the lumbar and abdominal regions.
OTC Medications
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With mild spinal stenosis, over-the-counter medications can be helpful. Those commonly used include analgesics such as acetaminophen (Tylenol,) or NSAIDS such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin,) or supplements like chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine which have been shown to positively affect osteoarthritis, although not yet specifically spinal arthritis.
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Cortisone injections
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Cortisone is a strong anti-inflammatory and can be used as an injection in the nerves and epidural space around the spine to reduce pain and swelling, but due to side effects, can only be used a few times a year.
Home treatment
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For mild spinal stenosis, resting the back and then gradually working up to exercise is recommended, and two most beneficial exercises are walking and biking. Another home treatment is the use of a back brace or corset, especially if the abdominal or core muscles are weak.
Other therapies
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Chiropractic manipulation of the spine is considered safe and may relieve pain; however, care needs to be exercised in the case of osteoporosis or herniated discs. Also, acupuncture can relieve pain in mild cases of spinal stenosis, but long-term success with this treatment alone has not been medically documented yet.
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References
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