Mangiarelli Rehabilitation Physical Therapy Blog
Physical Therapy for Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a degenerative condition of the spine that involves narrowing of the openings within the vertebrae of the spinal column that results in too much pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, causing pain and weakness in the low back. Spinal stenosis can develop after the age of 50 due to the effect of aging and osteoarthritic wear and tear on the spine and spinal vertebrae. Physical therapy provides an effective treatment for spinal stenosis, helping patients regain function, mobility, and strength in their low back and relieving compression of the spinal nerves.
Physical Therapy for Herniated Discs
Physical therapy is the first-line treatment for herniated discs. A herniated disc occurs when the outer ring of the intervertebral disc of the spine is torn, allowing the gelatin-like core to leak which irritates and compresses nearby nerves. This can cause radiating pain, weakness, numbness, and loss of sensation in the back, leg, neck, and shoulder. Physical therapists help those with a herniated disc relieve pain and restore function through strengthening exercises, manual therapy, and posture training.