Cervical stenosis is a condition wherein the spinal canal within the cervical vertebrae narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord, nerve roots, and blood vessels. This narrowing may be caused by degenerative changes, bulging or herniated discs, tumors, or trauma. Symptoms may include neck pain, numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness. Appropriate treatment options depend on your symptoms, severity, and overall health. In this post, we’ll discuss the best treatment options for cervical stenosis that will help you make informed decisions about your treatment plan.
How to Treat Cervical Stenosis
Cervical stenosis, or the narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck region can cause a range of symptoms including neck pain, tingling in the arms and weakness in the hands. Luckily, there are many treatment options available for this condition. Chiropractors can help to realign the spine and reduce pressure on the nerves while massage can alleviate muscle tension and improve circulation. Physiotherapy may also be recommended to help restore function and flexibility in the neck. It’s important to seek out medical advice and work with a healthcare professional who specializes in treating cervical stenosis to ensure the best possible outcome.
How to Relieve Pain From Cervical Stenosis
Cervical stenosis can cause excruciating pain for those who suffer from it. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to alleviate the discomfort and help improve your quality of life. Chiropractic doctors are trained to perform adjustments that can ease pressure on affected nerves and improve spinal alignment. Registered massage therapists (RMT) can help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation alleviating discomfort in the neck and shoulders. Physiotherapists can help improve range of motion and build strength in the affected area. A combination of these modalities can often provide the greatest relief and best results. It’s important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the most effective treatment approach for your individual needs.
Who Should I See For Cervical Stenosis
If you are suffering from cervical stenosis, it can be tough to know who to turn to for help. Thankfully, there are many professionals out there who may be able to offer you the relief that you are seeking. Chiropractic care can help to align your spine and reduce pressure on your cervical vertebrae. Massage, on the other hand, can help to relax tense muscles and reduce pain. Physio is another great option as it can help to increase your range of motion and strengthen your body overall. All these professionals can help you manage the symptoms of cervical stenosis, so consider booking an appointment with one of them today.
Top 5 Tips to Relieve Pain From Cervical Stenosis
Cervical stenosis is a condition that causes neck pain and discomfort, and it can be challenging to find relief. Fortunately, several healthcare professionals specialize in treating cervical stenosis including chiropractors, RMTs and physiotherapists. If you’re struggling with cervical stenosis, here are the top five tips that can help to alleviate your pain. First, try gentle stretches and exercises to help ease your neck pain. Second, consider seeking chiropractic treatment to help realign your spine and relieve pressure on your neck. Third, receive a massage session to help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation. Fourth, try physio exercises to strengthen your neck muscles and improve your range of motion. Lastly, make sure to prioritize rest and relaxation to give your body time to heal. By keeping these tips in mind, you can manage your cervical stenosis symptoms and find relief from your pain.
10 Best Ways to Treat Cervical Stenosis
1. Physiotherapy: Working with a Kitchener physiotherapist can help improve posture, flexibility, and strength in the neck and surrounding muscles. They may prescribe exercises, stretches, and manual techniques to alleviate symptoms and improve function.
2. Pain Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. Prescription medications may be necessary for severe pain. Consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate usage and dosage.
3. Heat and Cold: Applying heat to the affected area can help relax muscles and improve blood circulation, providing pain relief. Use a heating pad, warm compress, or take a warm bath. Cold, such as ice packs, can help reduce inflammation and numb pain. Alternate between heat and cold, using each for about 15-20 minutes at a time.
4. Massage: Massage can help relieve muscle tension, improve blood flow, and provide temporary pain relief. An RMT can target the affected areas and use specific techniques to alleviate symptoms associated with cervical stenosis.
5. Chiropractic Care: Chiropractic adjustments and manipulations may help improve spinal alignment, reduce nerve compression, and alleviate pain. A chiropractor can assess your condition and provide appropriate treatment options.
6. Epidural Steroid Injections: In severe cases, when conservative treatments are not sufficient, a healthcare professional may recommend epidural steroid injections. These injections deliver corticosteroids directly into the affected area to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
7. Assistive Devices: Using cervical collars or neck braces can provide support and stability to the neck, reducing strain and pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
8. Posture Correction: Maintaining proper posture, especially while sitting and working, can help alleviate symptoms. Avoid slouching and ensure that your workstation is ergonomically optimized to reduce strain on the neck.
9. Exercise and Stretching: Engage in regular exercise that focuses on strengthening the neck and surrounding muscles. Additionally, stretching exercises can help improve flexibility and reduce stiffness in the cervical spine.
10. Surgical Intervention: In severe cases where conservative treatments have not provided sufficient relief, surgery may be considered. A healthcare professional specializing in spine surgery can assess your condition and discuss surgical options, such as decompression or fusion procedures.
It’s important to consult with healthcare professionals, such as physiotherapists, RMTs, or chiropractic doctors, for proper assessment and guidance based on the severity and specific needs of your cervical stenosis. They can provide personalized treatment plans and monitor your progress throughout the recovery process.
Cervical stenosis can be a debilitating condition that impedes your daily activities. However, with the right diagnosis and treatment plan from a spine specialist, you can manage its symptoms and lead a normal life. Seeking treatment at the onset of symptoms may reduce the risk of complications and the need for surgery. Physiotherapy, lifestyle modifications, and corticosteroid injections may relieve mild to moderate symptoms. However, severe pain, weakness, and abnormal gait may require surgery, such as decompression or artificial disc replacement. Whatever treatment you choose, always work with a specialist to determine the best option for your specific condition and remember to follow all postoperative instructions to ensure a quick return to your normal activities.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Sam Heslip, RMT, or another Kitchener RMT at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
