How to properly treat stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a condition that occurs in people over the age of fifty and is characterized by wear and tear on certain areas of the spine. Narrowing (stenosis) of the spinal canal leads to pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots, resulting in degenerative-dystrophic changes in the spine. It can rarely occur in children and adolescents as well. Delaying treatment may lead to paralysis of the lower limbs.
Symptomatic Manifestations of Stenosis
When the spinal canal narrows, it causes partial restructuring of the spine, which affects the person's ability to live an active life. Common symptoms include:
- Heaviness in the legs;
- A feeling of weakness;
- Pain during walking;
- Severe pain in the back and legs.
Many people tend to ignore these symptoms because the pain and weakness often subside after a short rest. However, advanced stages of stenosis usually require surgical intervention, followed by a long and costly rehabilitation period.
Types of Spinal Stenosis
Based on the clinical presentation, doctors distinguish two main types of stenosis:
- Central stenosis – narrowing of the spinal canal down to 10–12 mm;
- Lateral stenosis – narrowing down to 4 mm.
In the first case, the intervertebral foramen and spinal canal are not yet completely narrowed, so these changes may be reversible. With timely and proper treatment, the passageway can be expanded within a relatively short time. Lateral stenosis is much harder to treat, since structural changes in the spine have reached a stage where medication and gentle procedures no longer produce the desired effect. Surgery is often required to restore the space.
Causes of Spinal Stenosis
Stenosis is divided into three types depending on its origin:
- Congenital stenosis;
- Acquired stenosis;
- Mixed (combined) type.
Congenital stenosis can manifest at any age. Its clinical symptoms are similar to those of acquired forms. Acquired stenosis develops with age, regardless of lifestyle or general health status. Mixed-type stenosis is a complication of congenital disease and is accompanied by various degrees of severity and neurological dysfunction.
Diagnosis of Spinal Stenosis
If degenerative changes in the spine are suspected, a series of diagnostic tests are prescribed, including X-rays, MRI, CT scans, and discography. Doctors at the “Berezoviy Gai” sanatorium can detect stenosis at the earliest stages using the innovative Nakatani method — a special electro-physiological test. This procedure involves full-body scanning, providing information about the functioning of all organs and systems.
Treatment Options for Stenosis
To help patients diagnosed with spinal canal stenosis return to normal life as quickly as possible, it is essential to properly manage physical activity and prescribe individualized therapy. At the “Berezoviy Gai” medical and wellness sanatorium, highly qualified specialists use the following methods:
- Diadynamic therapy;
- Gentle therapeutic exercise;
- Intratissue electrostimulation.
In combination with medication, these procedures effectively relieve pain, restore spinal mobility, and help expand the intervertebral space. Additionally, visits to an infrared sauna may be recommended, as it helps reduce fatigue, relax muscles, and alleviate most discomfort associated with stenosis.