What is Foraminal Stenosis
Foraminal stenosis, which is the narrowing of the openings that allow nerve roots to exit the spine, can cause painful symptoms and make it difficult to get around. However, staying active is important too. Regular exercise provides many benefits for the spinal column including increased flexibility and a stronger support system that can potentially offer relief for foraminal stenosis.
Whether you are just starting an exercise program after being diagnosed with this condition or you are an already active person looking to get back to your routine, it is important to exercise in such a way as to avoid worsening your condition. The following tips can help you get a quality workout if you are dealing with foraminal stenosis.
Tips For Exercising With Foraminal Stenosis
1. Talk To Your Doctor. Every case of foraminal stenosis is different. It is important to talk to a qualified medical professional who can tell you what level of physical activity you’re cleared for.
2. Take It Easy. Don’t jump into a workout too quickly as it can worsen the symptoms of foraminal stenosis. For example, Start slow and build towards your normal workout routine.
3. Use Proper Mechanics And Good Posture. Make sure you are doing your exercises properly. For example, avoid painful movements and distribute pressure on the spine evenly. Be sure to consult with a personal trainer or physical therapist who can correct problems with your form.
4. Listen To Your Body. Stop if you feel sudden pain or discomfort or if you are starting to feel fatigued as you are more likely to injure yourself when tired.
5. Try New Workouts. If you are used to running or lifting weights but have been told to take a break, try more spine-friendly activities like yoga, pilates, swimming, or cycling. These exercises can help you build a strong core and keep you active while you wait to see if your foraminal stenosis symptoms improve.
Your Treatment Options
Along with exercise, treat foraminal stenosis symptoms with medication, periods of rest, or therapeutic massage. It is also beneficial to make lifestyle changes like improving your posture, managing your weight, or quitting smoking, if necessary.
However, spine surgery to widen the foraminal canals can become a serious consideration if weeks or months of conservative treatment have not brought the relief necessary for a good quality of life.
If you are in this situation, contact the caring team at BEST Health System. We can help you learn more about minimally invasive spine surgery to treat foraminal stenosis. Our board-certified surgeons use muscle-sparing techniques to access the spine and relieve foraminal stenosis, allowing for streamlined outpatient procedures.
