Treating Spinal Stenosis in the Neck

Spinal stenosis in the neck is the narrowing of the spinal canal in the cervical region of the spine. This narrowing can occur for a number of reasons, namely due to the development of degenerative spinal conditions that can cause bone material or intervertebral disc tissue to compress the spinal cord or a nerve root. Nerve compression in the neck could cause localized pain and radiating pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness down the shoulders, arms, and hands, as well as recurring headaches.

Most symptomatic cases of spinal stenosis in the cervical (neck) region of the spine are often successfully treated through non-surgical means, including conservative and alternative treatment methods. If you have been diagnosed with the condition, your doctor may first recommend that you begin a course of conservative treatments.

Conservative Options

Conservative treatments for spinal stenosis in the neck often include:

While these conservative options are the most commonly suggested treatment methods within conventional medicine, some patients find that their symptoms are alleviated with alternative treatments.

Alternative Options

The true effectiveness of alternative methods is often debated amongst members of the medical community, as these options approach treatment holistically. It is always best to consult with your doctor and a natural health practitioner before starting any alternative treatment plan. Some alternative options include:

Surgical Options

Typically, your doctor will suggest that you complete several weeks or months worth of conservative or alternative treatments to see if your pain is relieved. Non-surgical treatment is sufficient for the majority of patients and as a result, surgery for spinal stenosis in the neck is seldom required.