Is There a Cure for Spinal Stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is a degenerative condition that occurs when the spaces inside your spinal canal become narrower. As the canal narrows, it puts pressure on the spinal nerves and causes a range of symptoms, like pain, numbness, and weakness.

Spinal stenosis is a degenerative condition affecting about 20% of Americans over age 60, according to imaging studies, although the majority of people are not symptomatic. If you do have symptoms and have been diagnosed with spinal stenosis, it’s normal to have questions about what your treatment options are and whether you can be cured.

Unfortunately, there’s no cure for spinal stenosis. The gradual narrowing of your spinal canal can’t be stopped — but you do have treatment options to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Dr. Maher Ibrahim and our team at Interventional Pain Management Associates offer comprehensive care for spinal stenosis, and we’re here to help you find a treatment plan that fits your needs.

Finding the right spinal stenosis treatment for you

We specialize in a range of treatments to relieve spinal stenosis symptoms. The best treatment option for you depends on the severity of your condition, the location of the stenosis, and your overall health.

Nonsurgical treatment options for spinal stenosis

To manage spinal stenosis, we usually start by recommending a combination of nonsurgical treatments including physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication.

Physical therapy is often the first-line treatment for spinal stenosis. Your physical therapist works with you to develop a personalized exercise plan that strengthens your muscles, improves your flexibility, and reduces your back pain.

Making certain lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and avoiding high-impact activities, can help to reduce pressure on your spine and reduce symptoms. Quitting smoking helps stop the damage from worsening.

There are also several pain management options for spinal stenosis. Depending on your condition, we may recommend over-the-counter pain medications, prescription medications, or corticosteroid injections to fight inflammation and manage pain.

In some cases, assistive devices can help to support your spine and reduce pain. Dr. Ibrahim and our team may recommend trying a cane, brace, or other device to help improve your mobility.

Surgical treatment options for spinal stenosis

Conservative treatment can be very effective for spinal stenosis, but those methods may not be enough for everyone. If you’ve tried nonsurgical treatment without relief, it might be time to consider surgery.

Decompression surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that involves removing bone or tissue from your spinal column to relieve pressure on the nerves in your spine. Another option may be dynamic stabilization surgery, which involves inserting implants to stabilize your spine and reduce pressure on your nerves.

If you’re a candidate for surgery, Dr. Ibrahim discusses your options with you to help you make informed decisions about your health care. For some people, surgery offers long-lasting pain relief from mild to moderate spinal stenosis.

While there is no cure for spinal stenosis, there’s a lot you can do to manage your symptoms and care for your health. Get a customized treatment plan from our team at Interventional Pain Management Associates in Hamilton, New Jersey. Call 609-757-9860 or request an appointment online today.