Spinal Stenosis: Diagnosis and Treatment Options

The growing number of people battling with spinal stenosis in Houston keeps increasing which is why the Houston Pain Specialists was born. The condition is common in people aged 50 years and over, and the symptoms come in different forms. For example, one person may experience total numbness when walking, while another person may only feel pain. If you have been diagnosed with this condition it is crucial to see a specialist for treatment, but before you make your visit, here are some interesting facts that the experts would like you to know.

How pain specialists diagnose spinal stenosis

Lower back pain can be a symptom of any condition ranging from arthritis or spinal stenosis. Before declaring that you may be suffering from the latter, your doctor can use your medical history and symptoms to confirm if the diagnosis is accurate. You may also need to have a physical exam to identify which specific areas in your spine are affected.

If a physical exam does not provide accurate results, your doctor may perform x-rays. It illustrates pictures of your bone structure to determine if you have lost disk height. Alternatively, they might perform Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to produce clear images of your spine.

Can life be the same when living with spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis can affect any part of your spine. It puts pressure on the nerves that support your spine. It can also affect your neck and lower back affecting your ability to perform your daily tasks. For example, if you worked in a grocery store and carry boxes as part of your obligations. After working for some years, you realize that you have back pain that does not seem to subside. After performing tests and examining your back, your doctor discovers that you have developed spinal stenosis. The most obvious step is to demand Social Security disability benefits to get treatment.

While there is no cure for spinal stenosis, patients can still navigate life without experiencing pain and other related symptoms. To make your life easier, work with your pain specialist. They can advise you on how to modify your lifestyle and help you pursue other conservative treatment options.  For example, they might prescribe oral medications to help relieve inflammation that is caused by spinal stenosis. If it does not improve, they might recommend that you see a chiropractor to create an exercise program that supports your back.

If you have been diagnosed with spinal stenosis and it has affected your quality of life, you can enroll for Social Security disability benefits. It means you are unable to engage in a productive activity due to your disability.

See a pain specialist for spinal stenosis diagnosis and treatment.

Spinal stenosis is a severe condition that can affect how you conduct your daily activities. Please do not ignore any sign that could indicate the possibility of you developing it. Anytime you sense something is amiss with your back or neck, see a pain specialist immediately. To find out more about spinal stenosis, consult your pain specialist today.