by M. L. Kiser

Created on: April 11, 2011   Last Updated: April 14, 2011

Cervical Spinal Stenosis is a disorder affecting the upper spinal column around the neck.  When the spinal canal becomes narrowed because of some obstruction, such as a bone spur from osteoarthritis, nerves connected to the spine become irritated, inflamed and swollen, putting more pressure on the spine.  Although it can be present at birth, it is most commonly a result of wear and tear to the spine and a part of aging.

Constriction of the spinal cord affects the entire body.  Symptoms of spinal stenosis include neck pain, shoulder and arm pain; usually in the affected area of the spine, muscle weakness, numbness, stiffness, cramping, headaches.  The pain may radiate into the legs or other extremities and cause tingling or even a loss of balance or difficulty walking.

You should be diagnosed by a physician who can develop a treatment plan.  A physical exam with x-rays, MRI’s, CT Scans or other diagnostic testing will usually be performed. 

Treatment plans may consist of exercises for gaining strength in the neck and back, stretching exercises that are easy and gentle, medication, either over-the-counter or prescription, anti-inflammants, analgesics or steroid injections.  However, these have some devastating side effects and can not only make life more miserable, but create new ailments and even cause heart disease.

An individual living with cervical spinal stenosis may have pain in one or both legs on occasion or frequently, as well as, numbness or tingling.  Many activities can bring on the pain and walking can range from discomfort to massive pain.  Pain may be inconsistent and sometimes sitting down to rest will help to relieve the pain or make it go away.  Sometimes, an individual may have to do a little, sit down to rest, do a little more and rest again in order to get through even daily tasks. 

Laser surgeries can sometimes help, but any invasive technique or procedure can also create other problems, so consider surgeries carefully.  These can often relieve pressure on the spine and nerves and many people have utilized this method with success.

There are other options for treatment, alternative therapies such as acupuncture, reiki, mild chair yoga or tai-chi, although this disorder makes it difficult to stand through an entire tai-chi session, all of these practices can keep you mobile enough to relieve some of the pain.

It’s important to exercise in some way, even stretching exercises

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