Spinal Stenosis in Tacoma

Spinal stenosis is a common condition treated at Proctor Chiropractic, serving Tacoma, WA and the surrounding area. This particular condition can cause you pain and can affect your daily life since some individuals experience difficulty walking or balancing. At our chiropractic clinic, we use natural treatments that target the root of the problem.

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Definition of Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis describes narrowing of the space in the spine. This places pressure on the nerves in the spine. People experience spinal stenosis in the neck (cervical stenosis) or lower back (lumbar stenosis).

It's possible testing will indicate you have spinal stenosis, even if you aren't experiencing any symptoms of it. Those who do have symptoms have tingling, numbness, muscle weakness or pain. These symptoms tend to worsen over time.

Some people with spinal stenosis may not have symptoms. Others may experience pain, tingling, numbness and muscle weakness. Some patients have difficulty walking or balancing. Symptoms can worsen over time. In the most severe cases, the patient will have bowel and bladder dysfunction.

Generally, spinal stenosis arises as a result of wear and tear in the spine, usually related to osteoarthritis. Poor posture can contribute to the onset of the condition. It's most common in individuals who are over the age of 50. Those who have jobs where they sit for prolonged periods of time are most at risk and so are those who live a sedentary life in general. It's possible to be born with the condition. Herniated discs and thickened ligaments could lead to spinal stenosis as well. An injury such as one from a car accident could cause .spinal stenosis, too.

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Diagnosing Spinal Stenosis

The diagnostic process typically begins with our chiropractor asking you about your symptoms as well as your medical history. Our chiropractic specialist will conduct a physical examination and may order imaging such as an X-ray, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computerized tomography (CT) scan.

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Chiropractic Treatment of Spinal Stenosis

One of the main treatments our chiropractor uses to treat your spinal stenosis is a spinal adjustment. This particular treatment consists of a chiropractor moving the vertebrae in the spine, so they align with the discs in the back, ultimately alleviating pressure on the nerves and tissue in the back. Our chiropractor may prescribe spinal decompression, a treatment using traction to gently stretch the spine. We might advise you on a flexion-based exercise program to increase the flexion your back.

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Schedule an Appointment with Your Tacoma Chiropractor

Schedule an appointment to manage your symptoms of spinal stenosis using noninvasive methods with Proctor Chiropractic, serving Tacoma, WA and the surrounding area. Call today to reach us.