Lumbar stenosis, also known as spinal stenosis, is a condition that occurs when there is a narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back. This can cause compression of the nerves that run through the spine and lead to symptoms such as pain, numbness and tingling sensations in the legs. One common question that people with lumbar stenosis have is whether they will experience pain all the time, only during certain activities, or even pain when resting with lumbar stenosis. In this blog post, we will explore this question and provide insights from physiotherapists and chiropractors.
Understanding Lumbar Stenosis
Before we delve into whether lumbar stenosis hurts all the time it’s important to understand what it is and how it causes symptoms. As mentioned earlier lumbar stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back. This narrowing can be caused by a variety of factors such as arthritis, herniated discs, or bone spurs. When the spinal canal narrows, it puts pressure on the nerves that travel through it. This pressure can cause inflammation and irritation of these nerves which leads to symptoms like pain, numbness, and tingling sensations in the legs. The severity of these symptoms varies from person to person depending on how much pressure is being placed on their nerves.
Does Lumbar Stenosis Hurt All The Time?
The short answer to this question is no – lumbar stenosis does not necessarily hurt all the time. The severity of pain experienced by individuals with lumbar stenosis can vary greatly depending on their level of physical activity. In some cases, people with lumbar stenosis may only experience mild discomfort or occasional flare-ups when performing certain activities such as walking long distances or standing for prolonged periods of time. In other cases, people with lumbar stenosis may experience chronic pain that is present even when they are at rest.
The Role of Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy in Kitchener Waterloo at CARESPACE can be helpful in managing the symptoms of lumbar stenosis. A physiotherapist can work with you to develop an exercise program that strengthens your back muscles and improves your flexibility. This can help reduce pressure on the nerves in your spine and lessen the severity of your symptoms. Additionally, a physiotherapist may recommend other treatments to provide relief from pain and discomfort.
The Role of Chiropractic Care
Chiropractors can also play a role in managing the symptoms of lumbar stenosis. Through chiropractic adjustments, a chiropractor can realign your spine and relieve pressure on your nerves. This can lead to improved mobility and reduced pain levels. In some cases, chiropractors may also recommend exercises or stretches that you can perform at home to further improve your condition.
When To Seek Medical Attention
While lumbar stenosis does not necessarily hurt all the time, it is important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing any symptoms related to this condition. Your doctor may recommend imaging tests such as an MRI or CT scan to determine the severity of your condition and develop a treatment plan that works best for you.
Lumbar stenosis does not necessarily cause pain all the time – it varies from person to person depending on their level of physical activity. Both physiotherapy and chiropractic care can be helpful in managing the symptoms of this condition. If you are experiencing any symptoms related to lumbar stenosis, it is important to seek medical attention so that you can receive proper diagnosis and treatment.
