Health Library
The Health Library is a collection of health and wellness resources created for learning and accessibility. Select a topic below for related health information or search for a topic in the search bar for more information on other medical conditions.
Spinal Stenosis
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Compare the pros and cons of having surgery for spinal stenosis.
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Hear what others thought about when deciding whether to have back surgery.
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Learn how surgery for spinal stenosis pain is done and how long it takes to recover.
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Learn how home treatment and physical therapy can help you avoid surgery.
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The purpose of physical therapy is to decrease pain and allow you to gradually return to your normal activities. Physical therapy for spinal stenosis involves treatment with physical or mechanical means, such as through exercise or heat. Physical therapy may reduce pain in the soft tissues (such as the muscles...
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Covers narrowing of spinal canal in the neck. Looks at symptoms like pain or numbness in neck, shoulders, arms, hands, or legs caused by squeezing of nerves and cord. Discusses treatment with medicine, exercise, physical therapy, and surgery.
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Discusses decompressive laminectomy, the most common type of surgery to treat lumbar spinal stenosis. Looks at how surgery may reduce pressure on nerve roots to relieve pain. Covers risks.
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Is this topic for you? This topic is about spinal stenosis of the lower back, also known as the lumbar area. If you need information on spinal stenosis of the neck, see the topic Cervical Spinal Stenosis. What is lumbar spinal stenosis? Lumbar spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back...
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Guides you through treatment choices for lumbar spinal stenosis. Covers tests used to diagnose and guide treatment. Discusses treatment with medicines, lifestyle changes, physical therapy, or surgery. Includes interactive tool to help you make your decision.