Spinal Stenosis Treatment in New Buffalo, MI
Honest evaluations for spinal stenosis. If we can help, we'll tell you. If we can't, we'll tell you that too.
What is Spinal Stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spaces within the spine, which can put pressure on the nerves that travel through it. It most commonly occurs in the lower back and neck, and symptoms often develop gradually over time. At Corrective Chiropractic, we evaluate stenosis cases carefully because the right approach depends heavily on the severity and type of narrowing.
Common Symptoms
- Pain or cramping in the legs when standing or walking for long periods
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs, feet, arms, or hands
- A heavy feeling in the legs
- Relief of symptoms when sitting or leaning forward
What Causes It?
Spinal stenosis is most commonly caused by age-related changes including osteoarthritis, thickened ligaments, herniated discs, and bone spurs. Less common causes include spinal injuries, tumors, and congenital conditions. The degree of narrowing and which structures are affected determines what — if anything — chiropractic care can offer.
How Chiropractic Care Helps
Dr. Strother evaluates spinal stenosis by assessing the type and severity of narrowing, neurological function, and overall spinal mechanics. In some cases, specific adjustments and decompression therapy can help manage symptoms by reducing pressure on affected nerves. In other cases — particularly severe stenosis — surgical consultation is more appropriate. He'll give you an honest assessment of where your case falls.
What to Expect During Treatment
Your evaluation includes a thorough neurological and orthopedic examination. Dr. Strother will review any existing imaging and may recommend additional studies. He'll explain what he finds and give you a direct answer about whether his approach can realistically help your specific type of stenosis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does spinal stenosis always require surgery?
That depends on the type and severity of your stenosis. Mild to moderate cases may respond to conservative chiropractic care. Severe stenosis with significant neurological compromise may require surgical evaluation. Dr. Strother will assess your case honestly and tell you which category he believes yours falls into.
Why does leaning forward relieve my spinal stenosis pain?
Dr. Strother may use specific adjustments, flexion-distraction technique, and decompression therapy for appropriate stenosis cases. The key word is "appropriate" — he selects his approach based on your specific findings, not a one-size-fits-all protocol.
Can chiropractic adjustments make spinal stenosis worse?
Spinal stenosis is typically a degenerative condition, meaning the goal is often management rather than reversal. Dr. Strother will be upfront about what's realistic for your situation and won't overstate what chiropractic care can accomplish for your specific case.
Ready to Get an Honest Assessment?
Find out whether Dr. Strother can help with your spinal stenosis. If he can, he'll let you know. If he can't, he'll tell you that too.