What is a common treatment for lumbar spinal stenosis?

A common treatment for lumbar spinal stenosis involves physical therapy and pain control. This approach focuses on relieving symptoms and improving the functional capacity of patients. Physical therapy helps strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, improves flexibility, and promotes better posture, which can alleviate pressure on the spinal canal and nerve roots. Pain control may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or other analgesics to manage discomfort and enhance participation in therapy.

While surgical intervention may be considered in severe cases or when conservative treatments fail, the initial management usually emphasizes non-invasive techniques. Osteopathic manipulation, though beneficial for some musculoskeletal issues, is less commonly recognized as a primary treatment for spinal stenosis specifically. Medication adjustments can also play a role in managing symptoms, but they typically complement the primary treatments rather than serve as standalone solutions. Thus, physical therapy combined with pain management is often the first-line strategy for lumbar spinal stenosis.