Spinal Stenosis - How Myotherapy Can Help

By Duke Autret, Myotherapist

​Spinal stenosis is a condition that affects the spinal canal, the space within the spine housing the spinal cord and nerve roots. This narrowing of the spinal canal can exert pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, leading to a range of symptoms. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of spinal stenosis, exploring its causes, symptoms, and diverse treatment options

Causes of Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis can arise from various factors, including:

• Degenerative Changes: Conditions like arthritis or disc degeneration can gradually narrow the spinal canal.
• Herniated or Bulging Discs: Discs that protrude into the spinal canal may compress the spinal cord or nerves.
• Congenital Conditions: Some individuals may have a naturally narrow spinal canal from birth.
• Trauma or Injury: Spinal stenosis can develop in response to spine-related trauma or injury.

Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis
The symptoms of spinal stenosis manifest differently based on the severity and location of canal narrowing. Common symptoms include:

• Pain or numbness in the back, legs, or arms.
• Weakness or tingling sensations in the extremities.
• Difficulty walking or standing for extended periods.
• Loss of bladder or bowel control in severe cases.

Treatment Options for Spinal Stenosis
Effectively addressing spinal stenosis through myotherapy involves tailoring treatments to the individual's symptoms and the severity of the condition. Myotherapy, with its specialised focus on muscle and soft tissue therapy, offers targeted interventions for relief.
Myotherapy Techniques

• Myotherapy Exercises: Tailored strengthening and stretching exercises play a crucial role in alleviating pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, thereby reducing the symptoms of spinal stenosis.
• Soft Tissue Massage: Myotherapists utilise soft tissue massage to target specific areas, releasing tension and promoting healing in the muscles surrounding the affected spinal region.

• Trigger Point Therapy: Targeted pressure on specific muscle points aids in relieving pain associated with spinal stenosis and improves overall range of motion.
• Myofascial Release: This technique stretches and releases the connective tissue around the affected area, enhancing circulation and reducing pain.

Medical Management
In conjunction with myotherapy techniques, managing spinal stenosis symptoms may involve specific medications by working with a GP:
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): These medications help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation associated with spinal stenosis.

• Pain Medications: Myotherapists may collaborate with healthcare providers to incorporate pain medications into the treatment plan for enhanced relief.

Or a specialist Doctor or Orthopaedic surgeon: 

• Injections: Corticosteroid injections administered by myotherapists can precisely target and reduce inflammation in the affected area, providing focused relief from symptoms.
• Surgical Considerations: While myotherapy primarily focuses on non-invasive techniques, in severe cases, myotherapists may work alongside surgical interventions to relieve pressure on the spinal cord, potentially involving vertebrae removal or spinal canal widening. Myotherapists can offer pre-surgical and post-surgical care that can help a patient to have improved outcomes of the surgery.

Embracing Relief and Preventing Spinal Stenosis through Active Lifestyle through Myotherapy
While complete prevention may not be possible, myotherapy emphasises proactive measures to reduce the risk of developing or worsening spinal stenosis:

• Myotherapy: Strengthening and stretching exercises alleviate pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, reducing symptoms.
• Postural Awareness: Myotherapy emphasises good posture, educating individuals on maintaining spinal alignment to reduce stress on the spinal canal.
• Tailored Exercise Programs: Myotherapists create customised exercise routines to strengthen and maintain spinal flexibility, promoting overall spine health.
• Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Myotherapists guide individuals on exercises and lifestyle modifications to support a healthy weight, minimising strain on the spine.
• Lifestyle Choices: Encouraging individuals to avoid smoking, a habit linked to the development of spinal stenosis, is a crucial aspect of myotherapy preventive care. 
• Spinal stenosis, with its range of symptoms, necessitates a comprehensive approach for effective relief and management. Seeking guidance from a myotherapist can be the first step toward an active and healthy lifestyle, tailored to your individual needs. Consult a qualified myotherapy professional today to embark on the journey towards relief and improved well-being.

Do you have a diagnosis of spinal stenosis? Management of this condition is possible, particularly in the early stages of diagnosis. Book with our team to discuss the most important steps you can take to care for your spine.