Written by: Liz Newman, PTA
Most people experience low back pain at some point in their lives. For some, this back pain becomes a debilitating and highly frustrating part of their day-to-day.
One particular type of back pain that is common is lumbar stenosis, which is a narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back.
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Many things can lead to spinal stenosis, such as arthritis, aging, and degeneration. When the spinal canal becomes compressed, this puts extra pressure on the nerves and can lead to numbness, pain, and weakness in the legs, groin, or glute region.
Once you see your doctor, you may discuss your options. The words surgery and therapy often come up in this decision-making phase, but how do you know what is right for you?
Did you know that several studies have found physical therapy is just as effective, if not more so, than surgery for many patients?
The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center put on a study of lumbar stenosis patients that caught the attention of doctors and patients alike. It split people into two groups: those that would have surgery and those that would opt for physical therapy first.
The findings are spectacular!
Participants in both groups improved, which suggests that physical therapy may be just what you need to get that back pain under control.
This is good news as a good physical therapy program is less invasive and less risky than a surgical procedure.
Here at the Cantrell Center, we are ready to work with you to decrease that back pain, increase strength, and get you back to doing what you love to do.
Best of all, we want to teach you how to move properly, so that you can move with less pain. The exercises we show you will be things you can continue to work on at home, so your improvements don’t stop when the therapy session is over.
So, if you have been wondering what’s next for that lingering back pain, consider trying physical therapy first. It could be just the answer you’ve been looking for!
About the Author
Liz Newman, PTA, grew up in Northeast Ohio. She obtained her PTA degree from Lorain County Community College and she’s currently in the process of completing her Bachelor’s degree in Health Care Administration through the University of Toledo’s online program. When asked what she loves most about her job, she responded, “I think the most important aspect of being a PTA at the Cantrell Center will be to continue to uphold their reputation of personalized healthcare in a positive environment. I want to help provide patients with the knowledge they need to get better while also having fun doing it.”
