As we progress through life, the human body can go through a lot of changes. That wear and tear on the body helps to build up our life experience but it can also reek some havoc as well making it a double-edged sword. The changes that happen in the body can cause some severe side effects, primarily pain. For this article, we will be focusing on spinal stenosis.
What is spinal stenosis?
This occurs when the gap between two vertebrae becomes more narrow, and as a result puts pressure on the nerves that extend from the vertebral segment. Of the three segments in the spine, it is predominantly found in the cervical (upper) and lumbar (lower) spinal segments.
What are some causes of spinal stenosis?
The main contributing factor is is osteoarthritis, or the natural wearing down of the body as it ages. Other causes can be bony over growths in the spine (bone spurs), herniated disks, Tumors, spinal injuries (advancing the effects of osteoarthritis). Anything that reduces the space between vertebrae and put pressure on the nerve can result in stenosis.
Common symptoms revolve around nerve dysfunction. Altered sensation (tingling/numbing) in the arms/hands/legs/feet, problems with walking and/or balancing, muscle weakness in the limbs, and cramping in the legs are all indications of possible spinal stenosis. Of course pain is a very important symptom and can be anywhere in the body depending on what spinal segments are compressed.
Can can clients diagnosed with spinal stenosis find relief of symptoms?
Once the root cause is discovered, treatment interventions can make a more significant impact on the symptoms to reduce their effects. In attempt to protect itself, the body will signal the muscles to stiffen to prevent further damage. This can cause reduced joint range of motion, stiffness, and pain. Massage can help to loosen up the tense structures by using a warm therapy (if appropriate), manipulating the soft tissues to allow for freer movement and promoting circulation to the area to help it heal. Passive stretches may be applied to help the muscles increase their range and reduce the effects of the stiffness. If it is safe, light mobilizations to the affected joints may be applied, but in some instances this may cause more pain and result in a set back for the healing. Your RMT can also discuss alternatives that can help manage your symptoms in between appointments. This includes home care (hydrotherapy applications and exercises that are appropriate) and referrals to other modalities/therapies the can help (chiropractor, physiotherapists, yoga, etc).
Massage therapy can have a great impact on those suffering from spinal stenosis. It probably won't be able to cure it completely. For that, a referral to your doctor may be given to explore other options however, it will be a very good resource to help manage your symptoms.
As always, thank you for taking the time to stop by today! I hope you have a wonderful day!
References:
Massaging away spinal stenosis pain: Massage for stenosis. (2020, March 17). Retrieved April 04, 2021, from https://drbradfordbutler.com/massaging-away-spinal-stenosis-pain/
Polyclinic, I. (n.d.). Home. Retrieved April 04, 2021, from https://indianapolyclinic.com/stem-cell-treatment-program/kb/spinal-stenosis-and-stem-cell-therapy-emerging-treatments-for-spine-health
Spinal stenosis. (2020, October 24). Retrieved April 04, 2021, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/spinal-stenosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20352961
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