Lumbar spinal stenosis is an incredibly common condition in which the spinal column narrows as a person ages, putting pressure on the spinal cord. Not only can this be very uncomfortable, but symptoms can emerge when you least expect them. Though many individuals develop this ailment each year, not everyone has a full understanding of what this diagnosis means for their lifestyle. Here, we’ll debunk several common myths about lumbar spinal stenosis and tell you what you need to know to manage your symptoms.
The Condition Always Worsens
Once you start developing spinal stenosis, it can feel as though your condition only gets worse over time. What was once a few twinges of pain might now keep you from getting out of bed in the morning. Fortunately, you can find relief and even experience an improvement in the state of your stenosis with the right treatment. Spinal stenosis isn’t crippling if you can find ways to stay ahead of your symptoms. So, make sure you talk with your doctor as soon as possible.
Forcing Yourself To Move Can Help
It’s also a common belief that forcing yourself to keep active despite the pain can be beneficial. Do not do this. The spine is a particularly sensitive area of the body, and pushing yourself too hard can cause an increase in your pain. Standing when you’re in pain can also cause additional damage to the vertebrae, making it easier to develop other conditions as you age.
Symptoms Only Persist in the Back
Another common myth about lumbar spinal stenosis we’re going to debunk is the idea that symptoms of this condition only occur in the spinal region. The spine connects to every other part of the body, and therefore, problems in this area often radiate outward. Your legs, in particular, will feel the effects; they may become fatigued much quicker or experience episodes of intense cramping.
It Requires Major Surgery To Treat
One of the most persistent myths is that you must receive surgery to treat lumbar spinal stenosis. While proper treatment does sometimes involve surgery, there are plenty of non-invasive measures you can try first. As stated previously, everyone will experience this condition differently, and what works for you may not work for someone else. Talk to your doctor about physical therapy and specialized medications to experiment with alternative forms of pain relief.
Lumbar spinal stenosis symptoms can vary in severity and progression depending on the individual. As such, it’s important to find a team of spine specialists who will assess your specific circumstance and address your unique needs. At Pain and Spine Specialists, we offer comprehensive pain management solutions for all manner of injuries and health conditions. If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort, we want to help you find relief.