If you have foraminal stenosis, your doctor will likely recommend nonsurgical treatment options as the first course of action for treating its symptoms. These conservative treatments are usually noninvasive in nature and many can be pursued in the comfort of your own home. Nonsurgical treatment generally works best as part of a comprehensive plan designed to promote your overall health while relieving pain and allowing you to complete normal everyday activities.

Some common foraminal stenosis treatment options

Some of the most commonly suggested nonsurgical treatment options for foraminal stenosis include:

• Taking medications. Your doctor will likely recommend that you take NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) to control the swelling you may be experiencing.
• Stretching. Practicing specific stretches that focus on the affected area of your spine may relieve some discomfort.
• Attending physical therapy sessions. A physical therapist can evaluate your condition and recommend exercises and stretches that can help you maintain your flexibility while strengthening the muscles in your back.
• Heat/cold therapy. Applying heat or ice, or alternating between the two, to the site of your discomfort can help control pain. Heat can relax your pain away, while ice can be used to reduce swelling. Be sure to consult your doctor about which approach would be best in your specific case.

If conservative options do not bring relief

In many cases, a combination of nonsurgical treatment options will result in sufficient relief from foraminal stenosis symptoms. However, if you experience little to no improvement after weeks or months of these treatments, you may want to research your surgical options.

More information about minimally invasive options

In addition to traditional open spine surgical approaches that involve a large incision, muscle disruption, overnight hospitalization and a long, often difficult, recovery period, spine surgery can now be performed using minimally invasive techniques on an outpatient basis. If you are being recommended to undergo spine surgery for spinal stenosis, be sure to investigate the minimally invasive procedures provided by USA Spine Care. Our procedures offer patients a shorter recovery time and less risk of complication compared to traditional open spine surgery.^ Contact us today for more information.

We are happy to provide a free MRI or CT scan review* to determine if you are a potential candidate for one of our procedures.

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