Which painkillers?

Which painkillers may be taken and are sensible in case of spinal canal stenosis should be discussed with the doctor. Some people have an intolerance to painkillers, which is why the exact medication to be taken must be discussed. For pain relief, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can usually be taken. These are, for example, drugs with the active ingredient diclofenac/Ibuprofen.

When should surgery be performed?

Surgery for spinal stenosis is recommended if the pain and other symptoms have not been successful despite intensive physiotherapy and self-therapy. Especially when the quality of life has extremely deteriorated and participation is no longer possible. In therapy and through the patient’s own exercises, an attempt is made to enlarge the spinal canal that is too narrow, which is often a very effective therapy.

If there is no improvement after the treatment and the symptoms even get worse, a doctor should be consulted immediately. If there are many osteophytes (benign bone growths/spurs) in the area of the spinal canal, they can be removed using a minimally invasive procedure. Muscle build-up and traction treatment is also extremely important in the follow-up treatment. Are you looking for information on post-treatment of spinal canal stenosis surgery in the lumbar or cervical spine? Then read these articles:

OP spinal canal stenosis lumbar spine – aftercare
OP spinal canal stenosis cervical spine – aftercare

What kind of sports should I do in case of spinal canal stenosis?

In the case of spinal canal stenosis, sports can and should still be practiced. Sports with a tendency to bend the spine are particularly recommended. Cycling is very suitable but also a special back training.

Above all, the development of the musculature is very important. Training on equipment in a gym is a good support, but should be done with competent trainers. Breaststroke and crawl swimming is not very suitable because of the strong hollow back.

But backstroke swimming and water gymnastics are even more so. Jerky sports like tennis, squash are not advisable due to the high strain on the spine. Walking at an appropriate pace should be done often. More information about exercises on equipment to strengthen the back muscles can be found in the article Back exercise for spinal canal stenosis