Have you heard the term “lumbar stenosis” regarding back pain or leg pain you are experiencing? If you or a loved one suffer from lower back and leg pain, and have been told you have stenosis, you may have some questions. So, where can you find stenosis treatment in Meriden, CT? My name is Dr. Erik Reich and I am a chiropractor in Meriden, CT. As a chiropractic physician I have treated many people suffering from lumbar stenosis over the past 8 years of clinical practice. Many cases of stenosis respond incredibly well to conservative chiropractic treatment, which is both non-invasive and drug free.
What is Lumbar Stenosis?
Lumbar spinal stenosis is a condition where the spinal canal narrows. Then, the narrowing can cause pressure on the nerves resulting in pain or other symptoms travelling into the legs. Lumbar stenosis can have several causes. For example, it can be caused by bony changes such as osteoarthritis, or congenital narrowing of the spinal canal, and spinal ligament thickening. Also, disc derangement such as herniation can also lead to narrowing and stenosis symptoms.
Do I Need Surgery?
Recent studies comparing surgery for lumbar stenosis versus conservative treatment such as physical therapy show similar outcomes. However, surgery carries added risks. Granted, for certain people surgery is an absolute necessity. To rule out surgery, a thorough history and examination should always be performed.
The risks associated with surgery typically do not arise in non-invasive treatment options such as chiropractic care. Therefore, while outcomes may be similar, many patients opt for a conservative non-invasive approach before considering surgery.
How Can Chiropractic Treatment Help?
There are several key components to an effective chiropractic treatment plan for addressing lumbar stenosis symptoms.
First, patient education is a key component of any successful treatment plan. High quality, evidence informed education about the condition, expected outcomes, goals of treatment, and possible side effects should be relayed. With better information, the patient often experiences better results.
Second, pain needs to be addressed. However, pain is only one symptom of stenosis which must be dealt with. It is hard to accomplish the goals of treatment if you are in pain. So passive care such as heat, massage, joint manipulation or adjustments, flexion-distraction, and other interventions are warranted to reduce painful symptoms to the point where active treatment, like an exercise program, can commence.
Third, active treatment moves to the forefront. Once pain has been reduced or eliminated, active treatment should begin in earnest. You should expect guided exercises, home stretching, and nutrition counseling. Symptoms from lumbar stenosis typically respond well to active care. Positive changes can usually be felt within the first week or two of treatment. Although every patient is unique and “it depends.”
Dr. Erik Reich is a Chiropractor Providing Lumbar Stenosis Treatment in Meriden
Dr. Erik Reich is a Chiropractic Physician in Meriden, CT. He practices at Omni Physical & Aquatic Therapy Center, Inc. . Where he treats all types of patients from high school athletes, seniors, and traumatic injuries such as work and car accidents. Spending time with his wife and son, and their Boston terrier, is something Dr. Reich also enjoys.