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What is stenosis and how does it affect the back?
Stenosis, or spinal stenosis, is a condition in which the space in the spinal canal or intervertebral spaces becomes narrowed. This narrowing can put pressure on the spinal cord and surrounding nerves, leading to pain, numbness and other symptoms in the back, legs and sometimes arms. Stenosis often occurs in older adults due to wear and tear on the spine, but can also be caused by other factors. Want to know what stenosis is and how it affects your back? More info...
What are the causes of spinal stenosis?
- Wear and tear due to aging: The loss of flexibility in the spine and the thickening of ligaments can reduce the space in the spinal canal.
- Osteoarthritis: This type of joint wear can lead to bone protrusions (osteophytes) that narrow the spinal canal.
- Hernia: A bulging intervertebral disc can put pressure on nerves and contribute to stenosis.
- Congenital anomalies: Some people are born with a narrower spinal canal, putting them at greater risk for stenosis.
- Injury: An accident or surgery to the spine can cause scar tissue or swelling, which limits the space in the spinal canal.
How does stenosis affect the back?
- Pain in the lower back or neck: The narrowing of the spinal canal may cause nagging, stabbing or burning pain.
- Radiating pain: The pain may radiate to the legs (in lumbar stenosis) or to the arms (in cervical stenosis).
- Numbness or tingling: Pressure on the nerves can cause numbness or tingling in the limbs.
- Muscle weakness: Prolonged pressure on the nerves can reduce muscle strength, making daily activities more difficult.
- Walking problems: With lumbar stenosis, it can be difficult to walk long distances without pain or cramps in the legs.
Treatment options for spinal stenosis
- Conservative treatment:
- Physiotherapy: Exercises to strengthen back muscles and reduce pressure on nerves.
- Medication: Painkillers and anti-inflammatories to relieve symptoms.
- Epidural injections: Corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation and pain.
- Surgical treatment:
- Laminectomy: Removing part of the bone or tissue to increase the space in the spinal canal.
- Spinal fusion: In severe cases, this procedure may be necessary to correct instability in the spine.
MediRelaxa massage chairs for stenosis support
Although a massage chair cannot cure stenosis, a MediRelaxa massage chair can provide relief from back pain by reducing muscle tension and improving blood flow. Gentle massage programs can help relax surrounding muscles, indirectly reducing pressure on nerves. Regular use can contribute to a smoother and more comfortable movement pattern.
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About MediRelaxa
MediRelaxa fixes your back pain and mobility while you experience ultimate relaxation at your home or office.
We are based in Westerlo, Belgium and deliver our massage chairs throughout Europe.
- Free delivery in Belgium and the Netherlands
- Up to 5 years warranty
- Personal installation
Contact
Interested in our massage chairs or a general question? Give me a call and we'll help you out.
Giovanni Vaes
Managing Director