Introduction
Spinal stenosis happens when the open spaces between the bones of your spine (vertebrae) get smaller (narrow). It is caused by bone pushing into the open spaces of your spine. This puts pressure on your spine and the nerves in your spine. Treatment often focuses on managing any pain and symptoms. In some cases, surgery may be needed.
Follow these instructions at home:
Rest and protect your back as much as possible.
Change positions when you sit, stand, and lie. This can help take pressure off your nerves.
Follow instructions from your doctor about what exercises to do. Do exercises to:
Strengthen the middle part of your body.
Build your energy (endurance).
Develop good joint movement (range of motion).
Lose weight if your doctor suggests …show more content…
If you were given a brace or a corset, wear it as told by your doctor.
Do not do any activities that cause pain. Ask your doctor what activities are safe for you.
Do not lift anything that is heavier than 10 lb (4.5 kg) or as told by your doctor.
Try to stay at a healthy weight. Talk to your doctor if you need help losing weight.
If directed, apply heat to the affected area as often as told by your doctorr. Use the heat source that your doctor recommends, such as a moist heat pack or a heating pad.
Place a towel between your skin and the heat source.
Leave the heat on for 20–30 minutes.
Remove the heat if your skin turns bright red. This is especially important if you are not able to feel pain, heat, or cold. You may have a greater risk of getting burned.
General instructions
Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your doctor.
Do not use any products that contain nicotine or tobacco, such as cigarettes and e-cigarettes. If you need help quitting, ask your doctor.
Eat a healthy diet. This includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean
Spinal stenosis happens when the open spaces between the bones of your spine (vertebrae) get smaller (narrow). It is caused by bone pushing into the open spaces of your spine. This puts pressure on your spine and the nerves in your spine. Treatment often focuses on managing any pain and symptoms. In some cases, surgery may be needed.
Follow these instructions at home:
Rest and protect your back as much as possible.
Change positions when you sit, stand, and lie. This can help take pressure off your nerves.
Follow instructions from your doctor about what exercises to do. Do exercises to:
Strengthen the middle part of your body.
Build your energy (endurance).
Develop good joint movement (range of motion).
Lose weight if your doctor suggests …show more content…
If you were given a brace or a corset, wear it as told by your doctor.
Do not do any activities that cause pain. Ask your doctor what activities are safe for you.
Do not lift anything that is heavier than 10 lb (4.5 kg) or as told by your doctor.
Try to stay at a healthy weight. Talk to your doctor if you need help losing weight.
If directed, apply heat to the affected area as often as told by your doctorr. Use the heat source that your doctor recommends, such as a moist heat pack or a heating pad.
Place a towel between your skin and the heat source.
Leave the heat on for 20–30 minutes.
Remove the heat if your skin turns bright red. This is especially important if you are not able to feel pain, heat, or cold. You may have a greater risk of getting burned.
General instructions
Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your doctor.
Do not use any products that contain nicotine or tobacco, such as cigarettes and e-cigarettes. If you need help quitting, ask your doctor.
Eat a healthy diet. This includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean