Canal Stenosis – What if it is Left Untreated

An Overview

Canal stenosis is a condition that develops when the area of the spine that contains the spinal cord and nerves (the spinal canal) becomes too small. The pressure from these sensitive structured can lead to a variety of symptoms depending on where the condition occurs. This can include pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the arms, hands, legs, and feet. To learn about why it’s important to consult your doctor if you are suffering from this condition, read the following article. 

Dangers of not treating canal stenosis

If canal stenosis is left untreated then it is common for your condition to worsen over time. As a result, severe complications can also develop, such as permanent pain and discomfort, disability, loss of balance, and bowel or bladder dysfunction. That is why it’s vital to seek immediate medical attention in order to give yourself the best chance of finding relief. Your primary care doctor can review your condition to determine a proper treatment regimen for your spine care needs. 

Treating Canal Stenosis

Depending on the progression of your condition, your doctor may either recommend conservative therapy or surgical intervention to treat your canal stenosis symptoms. If your condition is still in the early stages, the following nonsurgical treatments may be effective in helping you find relief:

  • Range of motion exercises
  • Epidural steroid injections
  • Weight management
  • Anti-inflammatories 
  • Chiropractic care
  • Muscle relaxants
  • Pain medications 
  • Physical therapy
  • Heat massages
  • Stretches

How BEST Can Help

However, in the event that your condition is severe, then surgical intervention may be required to treat your canal stenosis. If this is the case for you, then contact the team at BEST Health System to learn about the advantages of our minimally invasive spine surgery. Our procedures are a safer and more effective alternative to traditional open spine surgery and offer a shorter recovery period as well as a lower risk of complications. 

If you want to find out how we can help you on the road to recovery, contact BEST Health System today!