11 Most Frequently Asked Questions About Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

[@mfurman]

This is the best channel for those with spinal stenosis! Thank you. I watched many (!) videos on numerous KZbin channels and have two different physiotherapists (about to stop going to the second one). They all confused me more than helped. I am now only relying on my own research and help from channels like this.

[@InekeNantais]

Thank you for all the valuable information in your videos regarding hip arthritis , lumbar spinal stenosis and ddd. I have learned so much more than physical therapists whom I visited and I have created a self management program for myself. You have absolutely the best informative videos I have seen.

[@cynthia8343]

I had a laminectomy (after a diagnosis of spinal stenosis) 8 years ago at age 57 after experiencing excruciating, severe pain for at least three months, I initially took gabapentin but it didn't seem to do anything and the way it was prescribed was too convoluted for me. I really didn't want to go the surgery route and even tried accupuncture but that actually made it much worse imo. While waiting to be scheduled for spine surgery, the pain was so excruciatingly bad I had to make several ER visits for short lived pain relief. On my last visit to the ER, I was streaming tears the pain was so unbearable, they did an mri and admitted me that night for emergency spine surgery the next day. I thanked God for my orthopedic surgeon, after healing I was pain free for the most part (I waited too long to address the issue I think and now I have residual nerve pain in my buttocks and lower back, but nothing as bad as before) I also had bad sciatic nerve pain and the surgery corrected that. I did however after surgery have numbness, especially in my left foot and toes. But, I'm sure I did some things that could have undone the surgery such as bending down and stretching certain ways that I shouldn't have in the first few weeks after, not continuing physical therapy and also being rear ended in a bad car accident three years later. Fast forward to now at age 65 and I sometimes feel that certain type of pain, though not as bad, in my back AND neck area now. Is there anything I can do now to prevent going through and suffering like I did eight years ago? Needless to say I don't want to have to go through another surgery as I am now worrying about my hips and knees as I have severe knee arthritis. Thanks

[@juanitalindgren1515]

This is so helpful. I wish I had had this input 10 years ago before everything got worse. I've had recent back surgery and am trying to navigate through some ongoing pain. Your videos have been very helpful and will continue to navigate through them to see what can help me improve in my recovery going forward, especially as it relates to weak core and glute muscles, which are a for sure with me.

[@donnagraham6821]

Mine is serve the Dr said but I have do leg trouble it's just hard to walk

[@kimberlygodsil4168]

You are a ,God,send to me! I was sitting,walking& exercising the wrong muscles. Yes, I have been through p.t three times & became discouraged . Now I have hope thank you so much! Your videos are very presice in explaining the how's & whys,God ,bless you & thank you!!!!

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hi Kimberly! 👋 We are so happy you are able to find relief with our video! 🙌 We are so glad you were able to find the right exercise for you! Thank you so much for your kind words! In case you are interested we have created a playlist on Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Help! You can check it out here: “Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Help” kzbin.info/aero/PLJVIPiFvv1mYxifSEM8bNacVpyTmc3_Ys In case you are interested we do have additional information and exercises in an online program for back health. The 28-Day Back Health & Wellness Boost Program is designed to help people have the best chance of avoiding unnecessary surgery, injections, or having to rely on pain medications. This course guides people through exercises and stretches that target key body parts that have the greatest potential to prevent back conditions like sciatica, herniated disc, lumbar spinal stenosis, arthritis, and other back problems. To learn more please click this link: www.epmanualphysicaltherapy.com/back-health We wish the best on your recovery journey! Please take care! 🌟

[@sherrynan2028]

I’m 75, severe spinal stenosis L 2 3 4 5. I cannot do spinal injections due to previous problem with an injection & potassium level. I am a firm believer in physical therapy. I use a rotator, & that relieves pain. Muscle cramps in legs is major concern. Great information here…much more than I have ever heard from Specialist in my area. Thank you.

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

You're welcome SherryNan! We hope your back can get better so your leg cramps can go away. That is no fun :-( In case you need it, here is a playlist of all our lumbar spinal stenosis videos: “Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Help” kzbin.info/aero/PLJVIPiFvv1mYxifSEM8bNacVpyTmc3_Ys

[@carolmcelwee5481]

This is a very helpful video. I have had many injections, therapies, hydrocodone, gabipentin, tins machines, and lidocaine patches. Ironically, yoga seemed to help me most. These 11 questions address the very questions that most people with this problem have. This is very helpful. Thank you.

[@camillemousse]

Sherry, what is a rotator.

[@camillemousse]

Please, does anyone know what a rotator is that Sherry says she uses?

[@sherrynan2028]

@@camillemousse sorry…that was supposed to be a Rolator walker. Walker with 4 wheels.

[@SamsaLilaTheHobo]

Oh my God thank you! I just found out that I had this. I thought it was an extension of my awful debilitating hip burstitis. I feel everything you have said I might even play this video for my osteo doctor since she's the only one that seems like they half care. The primary doctors are useless. This is huge information that I'm hearing for the first time. Thank you again. I will add that part of my plan to stay away from surgery is weight loss. I'm already changing my eating and drinking habits, I'm lifting weights at the gym so my upper body can support me better, a little bit of cardio, but now it's clear that I need something like Pilates or yoga, LOSE WEIGHT, and hey perhaps check out your program!

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Samsa! We're glad this information has helped you! We hope that you're future is healthy and strong! Hopefully this playlist can help you too! “Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Help” kzbin.info/aero/PLJVIPiFvv1mYxifSEM8bNacVpyTmc3_Ys

[@roblongenecker3815]

Thanks!

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

You are so welcome Rob! We really appreciate your overwhelming support!

[@ronarussell1172]

Thank you for teaching us how to reduce and/or end the suffering from pain. I provide care for two Granddaughters (ages 6 and 8)in the morning. this includes waking them up to prep for school. I noticed upon waking they stretch in bed naturally tightening their mid section and legs and glutes, just what you suggest for relieving back and knee pain. No matter what age we can always learn, so thanks to you and them I've learned to improve my body mechanics.

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Rona! Thank you so much for sharing your story with us! Glad your granddaughters have you!

[@terrinight5035]

Is there a peer-reviewed study that points to muscle imbalances impacting spinal stenosis?

[@camillemousse]

Thank you, Dr. David. You gave me more information then my doctors or physical therapists. I have had it for 5 years. I use to be able to walk 1 1/2 miles per day but gradually had to stop . I have tried epidural injections that did not work at all ... L3/4 and L4/5. ....Physical Therapy didn’t work but I was being treated for pimaformis muscle (before the epidurals)...I have sciatica none stop- left side. Pain in butt and down back of calf and ankle. Also, get leg cramps. I use ice paks and heating pad. Take ice pack in car while driving. Hardly go anywhere because of it. Putting on weight since I can’t walk for exercise. I am over 60 so probably age related.

[@JohnnyPequin]

thank you The Physio was having me do planks to support my back and I was totally focused on strengthening my back even though I am very strong for 76.

[@buffholtman]

If you walking is bad for lumbar stenosis, would riding a stationary bike be useful?

[@jeanamog]

Thank you Dr. David ! I’m hopeful now after watching your videos . Liked and subscribed. Cheers from Toronto.

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

You're welcome Jean!!! We hope you get better!!! 🇨🇦❤️

[@chrisnorwood5557]

Always helps and appreciated

[@shirleykinney3777]

Great information!!

[@catherinemurray2211]

Very good content thank you for your work 🙏🙏🙏

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

You’re welcome Catherine!! Thank you!!!

[@michaelcaito6936]

does non aggressive swimming have any affect on spinal stenosis either good or bad ? michael c.

[@pratimashah585]

Great information, I watch your videos. I hope it will help me

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Pratima, thank you for watching our videos! We hope they help you as well! Keep us updated on your progress :-)

[@annforcier568]

Do you have a PT colleague who does your kind of PT in Massachusetts? It never occurred to me to ask whether the PT clinic I went to was mostly for post-surgery, but when I think on it, the answer is yes.

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Ann! In the US, you can find a physical therapist trained similar to Dr. David at this website: aaompt.org/Main/Public_Resources/Find-A-Fellow/Main/Member_Resources/Find-A-Fellow.aspx?hkey=108c9a56-f793-45e4-b3ed-cefe5d871a94

[@jazmanwalters4142]

I had surgery for spinal stenosis and they put 3 bars in my back, due to feet and leg numbness and pain in 2021. The numbness and pain is still there. I need a cane and walker to get around due to be unbalance. What exercises would help with numbness?

[@edfajardo7971]

Between these aerobic activities; which are best: elliptical, stationary bike, mountain biking, 10 speed biking, swimming, treadmill?

[@charlesowen2176]

Please discuss lumbar spinal stenosis and erectile dysfunction. Gabapentin will cause ed but men aren’t told this. I have also read that ed is WORSE after laminectomy or decompression surgery. So, lumbar spinal stenosis itself can cause ed and it seems that any treatment will only make it worse.

[@angelxorae88]

I don't see where the back brace on here was bought

[@mjdoviak]

I have lumbar spinal stenosis associated with fairly severe scoliosis. Do any of your videos deal specifically with that variety of stenosis? My X-rays/MRIs show a spine that looks like a straight highway with a 20° off-ramp in the lumbar region.

[@dreamsdocometrue33]

I have lumbar spinal stenosis with pain in my lower back but I don't have any pain or numbness in my legs. Because of this I feel like it is not very severe but I do have incontinence problems especially when I wake up in the morning. Do you think I should see a doctor?

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey m, absolutely yes you need to get to a doctor right away!!! You probably need to get an MRI too. You shouldn't wait until tomorrow. That is a medical emergency and you need to go to the hospital or urgent care right away!!!

[@dreamsdocometrue33]

​@@epmanualphysicaltherapy thank you for your response! I have booked an appointment with a doctor. I must say though, I have changed the way I walk based on your videos and my pain has decreased immensely. The condition has improved a lot to the point I almost feel "normal". I still have incontinence problems in the morning but the pain in my lower back has really decreased.

[@parthibanm4280]

Suffering on tail bone prob for the last 20 days. Though I was prescribed some tablets , couldn't attain full results Could you please help me out. Am 41 years old,Male from India

[@vivienmelia1964]

I have mild stenosis l4 l5 small disc protrusion l5 mild stenosis l5 modic 1 endplate changes its been a case of learning whats causing what thank you.

[@jakobson219]

Thanks for this. What difference does it make if the PT treating spinal stenosis (no surgery) is a manual physical therapist?

[@deborahcandland9861]

My personal issue is knee osteoarthritis and have learned so much from you about how to at least postpone the recommended tkr. Started using red light therapy for about a month now and makes a huge difference in pain. Would love to hear your thoughts on this. I am a senior and bought one for my almost 90 year old parents who also report pain reduction for neck and hands and lower back. My dad just told me cleveland clinic recruiting for large study re arthritis. Thanks.

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Deborah! We're glad our videos have helped your with your knee osteoarthritis!!! We don't know anything about red-light therapy so we can't really comment on it. Sorry :-( It might be something we have to go explore next!

[@eddcurry1245]

Great video

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Glad you enjoyed it eddcurry!!!!!!

[@KMSKINPARKCITY]

Very helpful. Thank you.

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Kris, you are very welcome! Thank you for the kind words!

[@swole9621]

Is just a reduction in space without touching the veins still stenosis?

[@andrealatryce1201]

Hey Doc, I am 52 and had a MRI diagnosis of congenital spinal stenosis in December. No back pain. It only affected my right glute,calf, ankle and foot. Spasms practically had me bent over for 2 months and swore I was allergic to grocery stores 😂😂 before the MRI. I definitely got relief by leaning on the grocery cart. I have had 2 epidural steroid injections. The first one was January 27th and the second one was February 27th. I had two of them because pain and nerve tingling was coming from two different areas. I am definitely 90% better. I get an occasional deep glute pain.I can stand up and walk the grocery aisles but my foot now feels like someone’s shooting fireworks in it a few times a day. The ball of my foot and outer edge feel thick, tingly and achy. I have to massage the pain away. Should I see a vascular neurologist? Thanks in advance

[@aletshoobert7655]

Thanks dr your input is wonderful, My left foot started swelling and my leg has all these funny feelings, what can I do about the swelling . I am taking a tablet for reducing water, it did help a bit. What would the reason be for the swelling, I assume it is a nerve, Im doing the exercise you so kindly give us. Here in South Africa, it's very difficult to find a dr like yourself that's prepared to go the length you do. I so much appreciate your information and help, is there a specific exercise I can do for my leg and foot.. Thanking you Alet .

[@alexchacko2354]

Hi doctor in my MRI doctor advising surgical options because of kyphoscoliosis so pls letme know which exercises good for me yhsnk you

[@Roxiegee60]

I have advanced bilateral stenosis getting ESI next week hoping that helps. I can’t stand more than 5-10 mins.

[@maxwell4431]

How was the ESI?

[@Roxiegee60]

@@maxwell4431 it is not helping, it is the second one I have had😞 Thank you for asking!

[@helenfanegan1102]

Thank you doctor. I have Lumbar spinal stenosis with pains on my two legs.I feel numbleness in my lower legs but when i started the exercises you recommended the tingling and numbleness reduced. Will your 28days program fix the root problem because i don't want to go for surgery. Hoping to hear from you soon.

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Helen! Great question and information! If these exercises have already helped your numbness and tingling, then our program will likely be beneficial for you. Here is a link in case you are interested: 28-Day Back Health & Wellness Program The 28 Day Back Health & Wellness Boost Program is designed to help people have the best chance of avoiding unnecessary surgery, injections, or having to rely on pain medications. This course guides people through exercises and stretches that target key body parts that have the greatest potential to prevent back conditions like sciatica, herniated disc, spinal stenosis, arthritis and other back problems. To learn more please click this link: www.epmanualphysicaltherapy.com/back-health

[@blackparade140]

Hi. My mom has mild lumbar spine stenosis. She complains of thigh pain and back pain. She doesn't have poor bowel and bladder Control. Will mild stenosis progress to severe stenosis?

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey East West! If the mild lumbar stenosis does not get addressed it can progress to severe stenosis. It is important for her to start working on her abdominal muscles to help improve the stenosis :-) Here is a great video on an excellent exercise to do for back pain! "The Single Most Important Lower Back Exercise" kzbin.info/www/bejne/hKTOi3SdZ8are9k Also, here is a great playlist we have on lumbar spinal stenosis help! “Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Help” kzbin.info/aero/PLJVIPiFvv1mYxifSEM8bNacVpyTmc3_Ys

[@carmenharb2923]

Hi, I have severe stenosis in L4-5 a cyst due to a bulged disc is causing the stenosis. I’m starting to feel numbness in my thigh. I have been doing PT for the past 6 weeks. No major improvement. How do I find a clinic specialized in treating stenosis to avoid surgery( surgery would be to remove the cyst). Cyst could deflate on its own eventually but I’m in pain and don’t want to cause damage to my nerves. Also I want to fix the root problem like you advised.

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Carmenharb! In the US, you can find a physical therapist trained similar to Dr. David at this website: aaompt.org/Main/Public_Resources/Find-A-Fellow/Main/Member_Resources/Find-A-Fellow.aspx?hkey=108c9a56-f793-45e4-b3ed-cefe5d871a94 Dr. David is a fellow of the American Academy of Manual Physical Therapists. His specialty is orthopedic manual physical therapy, which is the ideal specialty for helping someone avoid surgery, injections, and medications.

[@robsussman55]

There are other procedures short of a lamenectomy. What about MILD and or Vertiflex?

[@user-ku2fs1ke7j]

Would you recommend the MILD procedure if injections no longer work.

[@86soulx]

Hi doc, is it common to develop lumbar spinal stenosis years after a scoliosis spinal fusion surgery? my left lower back muscles are stiff and if i do the wrong excercises the pain would flare up. rarely feels numbness in legs (feet area) but it happens. I wonder if this is the exact symptom for lumbar spinal stenosis.

[@pratimashah585]

I already got one shot, at S1 nerve , I will see how it goes

[@ramachandranbalakrishnan2843]

Is surgery is the only solution ??? I feel not ....

[@f.3964]

Thank you dear

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

You're welcome F.!!!

[@amysharp9864]

Where can I find Pt who specialize in spinal stenosis is In Columbus A Ohio

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hi Amy, Dr. David's methods are specialized and may not align with traditional or commonly practiced approaches within the field of physical therapy. As a result, it can be challenging to find therapists who follow similar methods. You might find it helpful to visit the website of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists (AAOMPT). They have a "Find a Fellow" search feature that can assist you in locating physical therapists who have advanced training and specialization in manual therapy techniques similar to those practiced by Dr. David. Here is the link to their search tool: aaompt.org/Main/Public_Resources/Find-A-Fellow/Main/Member_Resources/Find-A-Fellow.aspx?hkey=108c9a56-f793-45e4-b3ed-cefe5d871a94 When searching for a therapist, we recommend discussing your specific condition, treatment preferences, and goals with them during your initial consultation. This will help ensure that their approach aligns with your needs and expectations. We wish all the best on your road to recovery! We'd love to hear how you are doing as you progress.🙌 Please take care!

[@syntiew4649]

Can lumbar stenosis cure without surgery

[@stevengrant9837]

Foraminal narrowing exercises

[@yazbakri]

Would the program be suitable for me if I have severe lumber stenosis in 2 areas and 2 bulged discs in those 2 same areas? I have no leg pain or numbness just back pain for the post part. Just want to make sure the exercises are good to do if someone has both.

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Yaz! Based on what you're writing here, yes our 28 Day Back Health & Wellness Boost program would be perfect to help you address the root problem that very commonly causes lumbar stenosis and bulged discs...even if it is in 2 separate areas. The fact that you have no leg pain or numbness is even better because it means that your condition should improve faster because it is not as severe as someone who does have problems in their legs from stenosis. In case you need it, here is the link for the program: www.epmanualphysicaltherapy.com/back-health

[@yazbakri]

@@epmanualphysicaltherapy thank you I’ll be buying it today. Just a future idea for your course, maybe you can offer a more premium package to have access to a community to ask you questions etc.. look into a platform called patreon. I’m sure there’s a lot of people that are willing to pay to have access to your knowledge

[@dianaward4990]

What type of practioner would you recommend to get the joints freed up?

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Diana! In the US, you can find a manual physical therapist trained similarly to Dr. David at this website: aaompt.org/Main/Public_Resources/Find-A-Fellow/Main/Member_Resources/Find-A-Fellow.aspx?hkey=108c9a56-f793-45e4-b3ed-cefe5d871a94 Dr. David is a fellow of the American Academy of Manual Physical Therapists. His specialty is orthopedic manual physical therapy, which is the ideal specialty for helping someone avoid surgery, injections, and medications. Normal physical therapists are best trained to help people right after surgery. Manual physical therapists tend to be excellent at freeing joints up. You're always welcome to visit us as well ✈️

[@dianaward4990]

@@epmanualphysicaltherapy Thanks so much, I am in the UK and will look for similar.

[@syntiew4649]

Is lumbar stenosis affect knee pain?

[@hosenshayesteh8906]

hi thank you for your videos i have lumber spinal stenosis can i squats every day?

[@lanamolczyk5139]

What happens after the 28 days of the back program?

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hello Lana, As of now you have lifetime access to the program. You can continue with the program and focus on anything you feel you had difficulty performing.

[@stevengrant9837]

Mild forminal narrowing is this serious

[@JimmyJohnson-ub4rt]

Gabapentin has saved my life

[@onlythestrongsurvive1979]

How has gabapenton saved your life how does it help

[@HeatherBrosnan-f6w]

Is this Osteoarthritis?

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hi Heather, lumbar stenosis is not osteoarthritis. Lumbar Stenosis is the narrowing of the spinal column and osteoarthritis is gradual wear and tear that happens in the joints over time.

[@HeatherBrosnan-f6w]

@@epmanualphysicaltherapy thank you 🙏

[@DMagnifyScentlady]

Hmmm

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey D MagnifyScent lady! Do you have a question?

[@DMagnifyScentlady]

@@epmanualphysicaltherapy yes, a lot Dr.... im just following what you are saying...

[@donovan7]

p͓̽r͓̽o͓̽m͓̽o͓̽s͓̽m͓̽

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

😊