Behavior at work

People who suffer from spinal stenosis should also set up their workplace accordingly to avoid further strain on the spine. Although a constantly bent posture can relieve the structures, it should still be avoided. However, in order to provide relaxation in the case of acute complaints or after prolonged stress, it should be urgently possible for the patient to adopt a preventive, relieving position at the workplace.

The workplace should be adjusted accordingly. Attention should be paid to a comfortable sitting position where the patient can lean back and relieve the back. Constant standing should be avoided.A stool or a mobile seating unit should be available for breaks so that it can take a break even after standing for a long time. As a general rule, correct behavior at the workplace with spinal canal stenosis requires that movements and postures should be avoided where symptoms worsen. If no measures can be taken to remedy the situation, consultation should be held with the employer and an appropriate physician to find better working conditions for the patient, if necessary.

What do I have to consider in everyday life?

Patients with spinal canal stenosis should also pay urgent attention to their complaints in everyday life. Movements that aggravate the symptoms, e.g. causing tingling in the legs or pain, should be avoided. Overhead work with both hands raised or activities in which an overextended or rotated position is constantly taken can be harmful to the patient.

Prolonged standing should be avoided. When walking, aids, such as a rollator, can be considered in order to provide relief by supporting the patient forwards. Heavy lifting, or jumps that compress the spine, should also be avoided.

In a back school, patients with spinal canal stenosis can learn how to behave in everyday life in a way that is appropriate for their back. This includes lifting and carrying objects, but also the general posture is made conscious and corrected. Transfers, for example from the side to the supine position, or from lying down to the seat, can be optimized so that the spine is subjected to as little stress as possible.