5 TERRIBLE Pieces of Advice for Spinal Stenosis

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In this episode, Farnham's leading over-50's physiotherapist, Will Harlow, reveals 5 TERRIBLE pieces of advice that are often given to people with spinal stenosis which makes their symptoms WORSE.
Once you know what these bad pieces of advice are, you can safely avoid them.
You can find our dedicated sciatica website with more information and a relevant article that might interest you here: www.howtogetridofsciatica.com...
If you're suffering from back pain that stops you from doing the things you love, you can take our back pain guide - which will give you 9 expert tips to put a stop to back pain at home - by visiting here: ht-physio.co.uk/back-pain-gui...
If you're over-50 with a painful problem in the Farnham, Surrey area, you can learn more about how Will Harlow and HT Physio can help you overcome a painful problem here: ht-physio.co.uk/
*Any information in this video should not be used as a substitute for individual medical advice. Please seek advice from your local healthcare professional before taking action on the information in this video.* Full policy here: ht-physio.co.uk/injury-discla...

[@Sunnyanne283]

I’m 78 years old. My ss is severe. I am kept comfortable for much of the day but pain is still severe. I have a riding scooter, walker and cane. I am a surgical candidate but at my age not comfortable getting staged surgery unless urgent. While I would like to go and hang in the pool,it is lots of work too. After58 years of doing my own housework I finally contacted with a cleaning agency. I love to read these comments and love his knowledge and presentation. He gets it! Epidurals still provide some relief. I will get one this week as it has been a hard few months. I’m wishing each of you relief and comfort!

[@malcolmjones3211]

Absolutely the best advice for genuine SS sufferers like me. The one extra advice I can give is try and lose weight, this has helped me alot. Keep up the great work Sir

[@1980Baldeagle]

I'm 5-10, 195lbs compared to 220 is a world of difference for pain and function. I can have somewhat of a life at 195.

[@helenamcginty4920]

Ive never been overweight but am 5ft 10inches and have always had some lower back problems. But once aware have kept physically active. Walking esp. But taking care when lifting. Made much worse by being knocked flying off my cycle and landing on hips. 😂 I cannot stand upright for about 5 minutes after standing up. My cheeky, younger, neighbour used to mimic me. With a friendly laugh.

[@jukip1485]

I used to have a couple of happy weights. Around 52 was good, 56 was bad. But 60 was ok....64 was bad again.

[@1980Baldeagle]

Compression and inflammation of the spine results in pain due to nerve impingement. The less you weigh or the higher your core strength the better you should feel. It's depressing for me because I love cooking and food. Moderation and balance of everything is the only shot we have. Or get chopped on by a hack VA surgeon.

[@koraiemon]

But how to do it I cant do most of the workouts and I'm doing walking but this isn't helping because i walk too slow and I use a cane as well.

[@indigoblue4791]

My back pain began in my 40's. MRI showed severe spinal stenosis at 50. So its not just in the over 65's unfortunately.

[@Ramrunner73]

I hear you. Same age. Same issues. Unfortunately a stubborn cynovial cyst that hasn't got fluid and won't rupture is adding to the issue. I've just been referred to the surgeon. Here we go :(

[@angelalvarez2241]

Late 30's was diagnosed with moderate spinal steniois I make my living using my back so this is really scary

[@SheriffMattOller]

51, Stenosis, spondylitis, spodolothesis, and a 12mm synovial cyst. Day 16 Post Op from L4-L5-S1 fusion with cyst removal. So far, best move I've ever made. Recovery has been challenging, but no nerve pain when upright and walking. Good luck! ​@Ramrunner73

[@sally8234]

I just started PT and she kept telling me I had to do extensions. I told her I wasn't going to do extensions. It just makes the pain worse. She was not convinced, but I stood my ground.

[@jenniferalbrecht5101]

Sounds like it’s time to find another PT!

[@maureencoetzee6253]

Good advice, thank you.

[@danielarivas3377]

i have stenosis but in my case I do find relief with extensions because the position slowly moves disks inside for a little while.

[@triarb5790]

Just remember most PTs have only done a short course. They are not exercise physiologists. Find a PT with a degree in exercise science, or one recommended by your physio or osteo.

[@momentumstocks3493]

@@triarb5790 Sadly most NHS simply do not care.

[@SheriffMattOller]

51 years old - 7 months ago, I woke up and couldn't walk. Off and on again issues until it became daily. Walked hunched over and was exhausted just getting from my house to my vehicle. Active police officer and K9 handler and active in my personal life, usually walking 5-10 miles per day. Got to a specialist, and had imaging done. Severe stenosis, spondylitis, disc height issues, and a 12mm synovial cyst. No amount of exercise or PT was going to fix that mess. I'm now 16 days post op from L4-L5-S1 fusion with spacers and laminectomy to free up spinal cord and nerves. The recovery has been tough. I've cried in pain, but it's been surgical pain. No nerve pain down my legs as before and I walk straight upn and go a few miles per day at this point. Part of that is my age (pretty young considering) and my pre surgery activity level. I realize surgery may not be the answer for everyone, but don't write it off. Provided my vertebrae fuse as they should, I expect to be back to a mostly "normal" life in 6-9 months, including working with high drive police dogs. Your mileage may vary, but stenosis due to the cyst was my main problem, as it was inside the canal pressing the nerves and Spinal cord. Anyway, stenosis is the real deal. Get help before permanent nerve damage takes place.

[@ellieadams1124]

NOPE! Mine started in my very early 40's, almost 20 years ago. My big toe became numb, and then one day my back was killing me, and by the end of the work day, I couldn't hold myself up. I was in horrific pain. I have lumbar and cervical stenosis. I was also diagnosed with osteoporosis in my 30's. Yep a shopping cart is a life saver! I am in pain all day and night everyday and have been for the last 25+ years. Pain wakes me up.

[@kirstymacfarlane1620]

I was diagnosed when I was 38 but it was mentioned in my medical records 8 years previous to diagnosis. I had cauda equina when I was 27 and needed emergency surgery. They knackered my spine. I'm 49 now and completely understand what you've been through and are dealing with x

[@heathermunoz6282]

I'm so sorry. Just found out that's what I have, and I also have osteoporosis. I'm very active and I have been working on pelvic shifting forward and keeping tight core. It's not easy, but I have had so much relief. Here's the link that started me in the right direction. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fHvLlGeaqMeCatEsi=LMoR_gov8Y_WsXzv

[@ArpitaBhawal]

I am so sorry. I got it at 51. I sit for very long hours and then a fall made me get it in 2021. In 2022, I couldn't move my right leg and was limping. I can't even wear heels now. It's very painful and very life stopping, and nobody understands that. People comment on weight gain and lack of exercise and are full of advice for me. Truth is I no longer understand what to do anymore, walking, standing, sitting, lying down.... everything is a pain.

[@terrydudley6860]

The pain is so debilitating...I thoroughly understand and am very sympathetic towards all of us who have these dreadful pains​@ArpitaBhawal

[@faith5401]

​@@ArpitaBhawal So sorry to know you hv so much pain to bear.. hv u done any X-ray to find out the root caused of it ? Must find out the actual problems first, and not just treating the symtopms/the pain. God Bless u much ♥️♥️♥️✝️

[@laurahenning2470]

I can't tell you the number of people - including medical professionals - who have said these things to me. Thank you for reinforcing what I thought all along!

[@kathyrussell9610]

I've been given all of these by well-meaning friends and family and ignored them. I discovered the shopping trolley trick on my own and would often go "shopping" for the exercise rather than to purchase anythiing. Because one can't go everywhere with a shopping trolley, I searched the internet and found upright rollators. I got one of these where I could support the weight of my upper body by my forearms. Now I can go for long walks, visit museums, and chat standing up at parties with no pain. It has been truly life changing.

[@dennisvoorhees6763]

My wife has one, She has mobile issues but I borrowed it to attend a large flea market a month ago. Last year the same Flea Market, I was trying to find a place to sit every 10 minutes or so. This time I managed to walk all day and take in the entire show. If I did need to sit down, the Rollator had a built in chair, but I only needed it a couple times. It worked for me.

[@lyndabrowning7516]

I have lower lumbar spinal stenosis and your five points resonate with me. I bend forward for relief. I do walk and sit down when I need to relieve my pain. I do not do the cobra yoga stance because it would increase my pain. I tried chiropractic manipulation and it did not help much. I exercised in water and it helped a great deal. You are right on the money with your suggestions in my case, that is for sure! It is painful to live with this condition but I try my best to keep going and not let it put me in a non-mobile state of living. I continue to go out and about and to travel internationally by using aids like my walker when necessary. I always have a chair and that gives me security and relief. Thank you for your suggestions on this video.

[@kaywilliams5761]

I get relief from using a pool noodle & hang in the deep area of pool with arms over the noodle. Spine feels like it is more relaxed & seems to decompress it naturally.

[@janny474]

Could you advise on what chair you carry and if you take a walker with you when traveling internationally? I've become afraid to travel.

[@lyndabrowning7516]

I have a three legged fold up chair that has a handle and can be used like a cane for walking. When I travel, I take my small fold up walker. It travels free as oversized baggage with airlines.

[@danielarivas3377]

​@@kaywilliams5761I like to hang in the monkey bars. It dicompress the spine.

[@rupinderkaur5086]

@@lyndabrowning7516Hi Lynda how u get in car n which car u use i mean how much ground clearance

[@ghittaeibschutz9513]

Thank you! Sensible , professional, straight forward practical advice ! Please come up with more such videos!

[@kathiekonarzewski7765]

Absolutely agree with this advice. I have spinal stenosis and this makes complete sense. Thank you for your clear explanations.

[@jenniferalbrecht5101]

Another thing that has helped me a lot is working with a PT who is versed in core strengthening, without compromising the back.

[@sunnypetawriter9624]

Great advice - so well explained. Aside, when I shared your video on Facebook the screen shot had you and an arrow pointing to you saying 'avoid this advice'. I notice stuff like that. Really clarified things for me. Wish I lived in Farnham

[@Hithere2002]

Excellent…..I’m a barber…..and the back pain is excruciating afterward cutting for the day…..and getting worse. With these exercises is it possible to continue working this work,which I love.

[@nanastirt8611]

Thank you so much for this. It makes so much sense. I have been told I have a crushing stenosis and that I need surgery by two doctors so far. I am in constant chronic pain. So just giving myself permission to lean forward and not feel that I have to stand up straight and push my shoulders back and put my head up all the time is freeing for me.

[@carolyndelong1082]

Thanks for the confirmation. Hope you come out with exercises to help relive pain in your next video.

[@lindamccormick5233]

Finally a clear explanation and advice. Thank you!

[@hazydreamer7965]

Thank you. Your advice made a lot of sense and it really is useful. Regards from Northern Europe.

[@SchatzFamilyHF]

Thanks so much for putting this great advice in one video. Well-meaning friends have recommended yoga, etc but they don't understand the problem. Thank you for making it so clear. Love your channel.

[@jukip1485]

Yeah....I have to forget a lot I get told. No one knows your issues like yourself. I don’t know many people with all my issues.....I know people that have them all but not all in the one person ha ha. I miss my rowing.....that used to help my chest/lungs....haven’t found something I like to replace that yet

[@sarafrederick621]

Thank you so much. You have explained this more clearly than any of the many doctors I have been to in the last 2 years.

[@andreassavvas4433]

Excellent information provided thanks

[@HeatherMcInerney]

Another very helpful video from Will Harlow.

[@jenniferalbrecht5101]

Thank you! 😍 all very helpful points. I’ve also found that being in water, whether it’s a hot tub or a pool, can help to decompress the spine.

[@gracegreen1181]

Good advice you gave. Will keep that in mind. Thank you.

[@socorrodelgado8966]

Thank you. You are so clear.

[@wendyparks4567]

Thank you for giving this information. Its quite informative.

[@oronorose]

This is the most valuable site for us folks with osteoarthritis. I was especially happy to see your video on spinal stenosis. I haven’t been diagnosed with this condition yet, but no doubt the condition is there since I have osteoarthritis and my late mother had severe spinal stenosis. I have ordered your book and will continue to watch your videos. Thank You!

[@paulpugh2480]

That was clear and concise, thank you .

[@safimalik9548]

Thankyou for explaining so well

[@linjubar]

Thank you so much! My PT had me doing modified cobra, even though I reported disabling pain any time I did it. Her goal was to get me doing hyperextension again by gradually increasing the extension. We both knew I had severe stenosis where the pain was. I’m not going back.

[@daphneyhinds6789]

Thanks for your advice. I Learned alot.

[@rodee1671]

I walk 2-3 hours a few times a week (no choice) and I have to lay down for hours to decompress to a tolerable degree. Debilitating! Im trying to strengthen my back, gently. This channel is a blessing. Thank you.

[@tesora8004]

I can't even walk. I feel your pain and what you are experiencing.

[@rogbrogb5341]

Any observation on inversion tables, to gently stretch/ decompress the spine?

[@brendalasich1550]

@@rogbrogb5341 I asked my doctor about a teeter hang up. He said he would never suggest inversion tables to someone with this condition. So that was from my surgeon.

[@lindenrosam4781]

I barely walk at all. I start off the day well enough to do my chores and guitar practice. As the day wears on I can hardly walk around the house. I can feel my spine compressing and my legs becoming numb. Even sitting becomes a problem. Only laying down helps. I take too many meds and am struggling to stay positive. I had spinal decompression and discectomy at L2/3 and L3/4 because I lost all feeling below those areas. The pain is worse now than it was before, but I can walk a little. Count your blessings!

[@user-gv7dw9hx9b]

I can only stand for 5 minutes!

[@wildflyingdove]

Thanks for understanding

[@Jo81562]

Thank you for this excellent video. So glad I found your videos🇨🇦

[@Lydia361000]

Thank you for the helpful advice.

[@michaelvaladez6570]

Best advice post ive seen..others not so good.Greatly appreciate this.!!!

[@clodiamk9873]

Thank you . Your advice was very helpful to me.

[@chetmarcotti4953]

Thank you for this ad ice. This was very helpful. I plan to get a regimen in place to specific routine set of approved exercises. I know at 81 I need to use my doctor for advice. I enjoy exercising.

[@Mansmatters]

Very helpful video!

[@thesoundsmith]

Regarding #4: We have an osteopath that gives my wife and and incredible relief - I, 81 with spinal stenosis, not sure about the wife. (HIPPA🙃) I'm on my back, her hand under my spine. She barely touches me, resting fingers on key points for maybe 30 seconds. Then on my side, pressing back. That's it. And I'm so much more flexible and lower pain levels. Sick of doin' the chiropractic twist? I'd say osteopathy offers CBD to counter chiro's crack...

[@tonjamatthias7839]

There is a chiropractic technique that I use called Cox Flexion Distraction that doesn't involve any side posture twisting at all. Not all chiropractors use that twisting technique.

[@user-xu7ps6kd2s]

Thank you for the good advice

[@calivalley9056]

Mine was so bad I had get injections and finally they burned several facet joint nerves, it helped but it’s temporary as the nerve repairs itself and pain returns. Also, the pain may be diminished but the condition still exists and I have found I get a false since of what I can do and push myself to far and then my muscles lock up or my right leg goes numb,burns or feels like it’s asleep. This started in my mid thirties after a bad fall while serving in the military, seems only to get worse, take care of self folks.

[@methree3821]

Great advice bro. Thank you.

[@TheMg49]

Yes, this makes sense. I'm pretty sure that I saw "stenosis" and "sclerosis" in some of my MRI and other medical data. Apparently, the spinal situation is also causing neuropathic pain. I'm 76 with lower back pain and also pain in left buttocks and leg. I've resisted getting any of the shots they offer, or using chiropractic, because of the chance that it could make it worse. My exercise is mostly bicycling, tennis, lifting kettlebells and dumbbells, and walking. Tennis and walking cause the most pain and limping, but I think that they are necessary for my general health, and I always feel generally better after a strenuous tennis match despite the noticeable increase in lower back, buttocks, and leg pain. I've been prescribed a small amount of Tramadol each month, which I sometimes take before matches and other strenuous exercise, and it does help. It also seems to generally improve my motivation, focus, and energy. Constantly dealing with the pain is somewhat tiring. Anyway, thanks for your videos. Thumbs up!

[@zorahousley1706]

Thanks a lot for excellent explanation and very good advices as what not to do - it fully agrees with my experience. Please continue with these meaningful advices

[@spicyirwin5835]

Same here. Had both.

[@frankmccann29]

Thank you.

[@stephanefaignet8636]

Thank You For Your Advice!

[@lindafowler6068]

Wil Your videos are so informative and you present them with great clarity. I have share your utube channel with 5 friends.

[@HT-Physio]

Thank you so much for sharing my work with others! Wishing you all the best :)

[@sankt5d224]

I love the information you give and the simplicity with your explanations. The question I have is what do you do when you have spinal and cervical stenosis, ddd, and bulging disks. I am only 43 years old and hurt all day every day

[@desiataylor6540]

I'm in agony the same

[@BigFuDog]

Same here

[@alenselinof641]

Thanks a lot, that's exactly what I wanted to hear, especially about walking.

[@beverlypeltier5514]

Thanks for the information You are sharing with us. I was diagnosed with spinal Stenosis 4 weeks ago. Did the. MRI. I started going to Therapy. Twice a week. My Dr. wants me to see a Specialist. ( Surgeon )

[@MERollered]

I got diagnosed with this at 38 and when I argued with the doctor I think he got done arguing with me and told me to stand up put my hands on my hip and thrust my stomach out. He warned me though prior that my back is bad enough I will probably end up in a crumpled heap on the floor and that is exactly what happened. I stopped arguing with him after that point. But learning to live it with and that because this is happening so young I will probably have a back surgery or two in my future.

[@lauralonati7048]

Thank you for this video!

[@shr6812]

The best advice ever. Bravo❤️

[@Lydia361000]

RE: Leg, hip, and back LUMBAR SPINAL STENOSIS Being too cold outside (or even in a grocery store--if the air conditioner feels too cold) can initiate horrid pain . Additionally, high humidity can make ones leg and hip hurt tremendously (esp. early morning). I find this so strange.

[@jairajfitnessgymneharunaga6404]

Same with me the experience you shared

[@rupinderkaur5086]

Relocate to India u will get appropriate weather dear

[@johnmontemayor6987]

Same experience here as well

[@CrazyMaryJo]

Such helpful information. Prepares me for moving forward with new ortho spine group. Am 74 being upright a max of 10 minutes with Lyrica. As opposed to 5 minutes without Lyrica. 😮

[@deniesekline-thatcher8380]

I do agree because if you can not cure it you can improve everything around it to give you a more comfortable performance from everything around that area to protect it & make everything possible more helpful throughout your body 💞.

[@nickprescott9]

Hello. Thank you for this video. Are you aware of the Alexander technique, and if so, do you think it could help people with spinal stenosis?

[@sanchitapal475]

Recently i was diagnosed with spinal stenosis according to my MRI report.I was worried , but your advice boosted me.Good advice doctor.Thank you so much .much.

[@HT-Physio]

I'm pleased my video was able to shed some light on what you're experiencing - I hope my channel can provide further guidance :)

[@rehabspinalstenosis9548]

Great summary! Woot!

[@MultiDianeD]

Good advice that I discovered on my own!

[@patriciaparchment8564]

Very,very good advice.Thank you so very much!

[@HT-Physio]

You are so welcome!

[@Yell5651]

Another excellent and easy to understand advice.

[@waynegourlay]

great advice thankyou😊

[@jeanholden4939]

Sound advice really helpful

[@virginia.cherishian449]

Excellent thank you

[@carolechapman7857]

So glad I heard you say that it’s ok to lean forward … I’ve been corrected on this so many times ! I’ve walked for past few years, and find I have a hard pain across my lower back … found it was relieved by walking up hills!

[@seayorskivlogs418]

Thank you for your video very informative..👍

[@HT-Physio]

So pleased it was helpful!

[@lamiaibrahim4680]

Really true, I used to go to the gym and our instructor usually asked to do copra, I was not feel it comfortable to my back at all, while he used to say that “it is good to your sciatica!”

[@seanm5263]

Thank you for you video, I am 46 and I have sever spinal stenosis, I’ve been suffering from back pain since very young age, I did epidural shot and the pain gone for few days. After few days the pain came back and even gotten worse, my right leg is mostly numb, the muscles are very tight in some areas it’s hard to sit down, it’s hard to walk too, I am going to get some opinion if to do surgery or not, this is very scary situation.

[@jnutty4300]

49 dealing with the same considering si joint fusion after my surgeon recommended it or spinal cord stimulator are my last options there offering.Its a pain in the butt for you I know and I hope you can find relief.

[@lep8622]

Sleep with a lumbar pillow in a recliner to get rid of leg numbness

[@buckrichardson3244]

THANKS GOOD INFO .

[@johnryan2874]

Each video gives different advice. Now I'm totally confused.

[@rosa.sanchez]

Thanks for sharing this, I have lumbar stenosis condition with antherolistesis L4-L5, grado 1. I felt severe symptoms for the first time in my life (I'm 49) 10 months ago and 2 injections from there to now. Now I would like to improve by making the recommended exercises daily and learning how to sit and walk in a way that doesn't cause harm. My question is about cycling at the gym with a back-sit cycle if it's good or not, because of the tension at the hip flexor. And the second question is about the press at the gym, where you sit with a support on the back and bend the knees making a 90degree the knees with the feet and push some weight with your feet by stretching the legs, I can apply the tilt here and at the same time working on my legs muscles. What is your opinion, please? The gym helps me a lot to release the stress that is causing me this new condition in my life but of course I want to make the things that are good and not the opposite. Please, kindly answer my questions, it will be very helpful for me 🙏 Thank you so much. Kind regards.

[@Manellamusic]

This piece of advice is very useful for me as I suffer from Spinal Stenosis. Your explanation was brilliant about what it does to the spine. I understood the do’s and don’ts for this problem and I am going to follow your advice. I use two hiking sticks to walk and constantly wanting to sit down half way through. I will let you know how I get on. Thank you 🙏 I have subscribed so hopefully I will get more advice. 😊

[@user-ib7st9qv8b]

Best advice on internet thanks Anne Marie the phizio said to me you need surgery, you’re past it, no one will touch you?

[@viccifranklin3165]

You’ve just confirmed my suspicions. I went to a chiropractor when I couldn’t walk 500 yards and it sounded like she cracked something in my spine. It set me back to the beginning of my trouble and took another 6/12 months before I was nearly back to normal. Having said that I was still having difficulty in walking. I had an injection in my lower back and that certainly helped. Strangely I can now play golf but can’t walk and play. I have to use a buggy. I probably should only play nine holes but I’m pushing it to play 18. It takes a week to get over it. But I’m playing 😁. I’m 75.

[@joyobadoba7103]

Sadly, I was diagnosed with Spinal stenosis with an annular disc bulge. I decided to get a lumbar support when I couldn't stabs to cook or do a short walk. The belt help me to walk longer and stand longer and even when sitting. However I also discovered that when I do the cobra I had a serious relief on my back. I also use heat therapy to ease the pain whenever I do a long walk or after cooking. Please, What can I possibly be doing wrong to avoid worsening my condition? and also how is possible to carry pregnancy to ten with this condition?😮 I am 40yrs old

[@DrBo1]

probably not a trained Chiro.

[@edu.M.A.0077]

Chiropractic has always helped me to stop scietic pain. I agree with your video on the other points.

[@extremeclean2680]

I have SS and my chiropractor helped a lot with my hip pain. Every situation is unique..

[@curlymop5947]

That’s very informative. I thought it was just me stopping to sit down and using a shopping trolley to lean on.👍

[@ultraollie]

Great advice. My stenosis (MRI confirmed) is foraminal (possibly related to grade I spondylolisthesis ) and showed up as stabbling glute pain while walking. The one caveat: doing a gentle McKenzie press up DOES bring relief; the first rep I can barely get my chest up and by the 10'th, it is up a bit and things feel a lot better. Still, the bend forward works well too. But something like "yoga cobra" is way too much and I avoid those.

[@johnbillings5260]

I have spinal stenosis and recoil at the thought of going to a chiropractor. I'm even concerned about doing PT because of it. 😱

[@mystarriseverything9617]

That was great advise i have spinal stenosis in my neck have u got advise for that thanks

[@purehailayts]

Please advice if dry needling or acupuncture helps. Thanks much.

[@nancyjuszczak6216]

So what are the best exercises for this condition?

[@hodahabachi9488]

Thank you for these advices and the clear explanation. I do suffer from spinal stenosis because of spondylolithesis LV3/4 through LV5/SV1 ; are there any exercises to alleviate the pain ? Would swimming help ? I am 75 years old and I can’t imagine undergoing surgery.

[@alchemik-79]

Look into a keyhole (laparoscopic) spinal surgery. New method, small (1/2 inch) scar and next day discharge. I am 44 with severe spinal stenosis and this is where my hope is.

[@bonscottrocks1728]

Had a hemilectomy in '21 on my L3/4 L4/5. In '22 I was back into the office getting steroid injections. I have been diagnosed with spinal stenosis. I received 2 more injections a few days ago with hardly any relief. My doc said he'll need to go back in for another cleaning. My L4/5 has arthritis buildup and I'm walking guarded. I'm reluctant to get a laminectomy (fusion/brackets) so hopefully he'll just clean around the area and into my Si....

[@bonscottrocks1728]

Update: in December 23 I had another microdysectmy/ laminectomy it's now April 24 and I'm already getting another MRI and possibly some more injections. I'm now a candidate for a fusion which my doctor wanted to do a few months back and I probably should of listened. We'll see...

[@bhgardeners]

Spot on Early in the day, I feel pretty good, by midday, the right side under the rib hurts slowly extending as the day progresses from the rib area down the leg into the feet. MRI diagnosis is wear and tear and stenosis, at 76 and after years of hard work it is not exactly a surprise. if I walk 500 yards the down grade is progressive to the point of slowing to a crawl. Yes sitting down is a relief. It would seem that we are all in the same boat, I have been offered surgery BUT it seems to me that some discomfort might outweigh the possible very negative side affects of the latter, has anyone had the surgery how long were they off and did it work?

[@Jroccc8181]

Seen my share of PTs over da years. Dis video is rock solid 🤩💥

[@alchemik-79]

I'm 44 and have recently been diagnosed with severe lumbar spinal stenosis. I have updated my NHS advised exercises with Will's take on it (plus got the book - highly recommended) and some yoga for upper back relief as I was told it works hard to compensate for the lower back problems. As I am relatively young for the condition, I'm trying to find a more permanent fix because this condition will only become worse with time. Advancement in neurosurgery gives me some hope. Dr Piotr Winkler (Polish neurosurgeon) has been using endoscopic (keyhole) spinal surgery to treat stenosis with very good effect for about 10 years with 1k+ procedures performed. Apparently NHS is catching up with the world, too, with The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital being one of the first and Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital starting these procedures in 2022. Fingers crossed, there is hope for me yet!

[@jcladyrx]

Hello I just saw ur video and I found it helpful. I have question about physical therapy. What is the difference between a physical therapist and a physiologists? Which one would be better for a person suffering with lumbar stenosis and herniated disc?

[@no2thenwo737]

I have a herniated disc that never healed and bilateral lumbar stenosis. Leaning forward is a definite no, no for me because this will trigger severe sciatica every time. I am thinking of dropping some weight (I'm not obese) because nothing else but painkillers (Tramadol) works for me. I only just turned 50.

[@sherryroberts1821]

I have SS in my lower back and in my C spine. It’s extremely painful. As well as rotoscoliosis, arthritis, multiple herniated disc and several areas of the sciatic nerve damaged at the root,and fibromyalgia. And my knee joints are shot. Any suggestions for the C spine??? Or any of the rest of it?? I’m 62, but this all started in my 40’s. I’m disabled now, I was a nurse. I don’t feel like myself at all anymore. Very sensitive to chemicals (medication) from the fibromyalgia. I do have pain meds and muscle relaxer, they help enough to tolerate living. I’m mostly home bound. Sorry for going so much. Love your video. Thank you

[@barbarabarb.manolache4376]

You are a particular god-send at this moment of being assessed and making decisions-thank you so much!

[@HT-Physio]

So pleased my videos came at the right time for you!

[@Sarah33Kaufman]

Thanks

[@idagenova7519]

Thank you so much for this. No one has been giving me any bad advice like this, rather, I had been giving it to myself. In some ways, I felt that I should work harder or do more to improve my SS and disc herniation. From now on, I'll be listening only to my physical therapist and my pain management specialist.

[@M00Nature]

Thank you for explaining why the cobra exercise doesn’t work for folks with spinal stenosis or facet joint syndrome. I used it successfully when I had a bulging disc but now 10 years later I have facet joint problems and the cobra greatly increases my pain.

[@EricKerman]

diagnosed as foraminal spinosis the nerve exit is called foraminal tunnel. Had a bad case in 2019 and PT cured it , Was on OXY for 5 months due to unbearable pain

[@shepatown]

Most chirporactors wouldn't perform a high velocity spinal adjustment on a person with stenosis. They have to have current xrays and other scans and then they would use other approaches - IMO. One of those approaches is Cox Table Technic, a form of focused traction. It worked well for foraminal stenosis on my neck, but didn't work for central lumbar stenosis. There are papers / studies written on the subject. I've found them to be a little too optimistic for the lumbar and pessimistic for the cervical area, but experienced great results from the treatments of the neck and nothing more than feeling a little taller from the treatments of the lumbar area. The more conservative approach of physical therapy for lumbar stenosis made my condition worse. Looks like I'm just going to have to get the epidurals from a spinal specialist. I hope that works.

[@karensilady5729]

Just FYI and to ease your mind. Only go to a pain management center associated with a hospital it helps to make sure you have someone with an appropriate fellowship in pain management. They will use a multi modal approach. PT meds exercise program and epidural injections. If they think something is wrong, they will give you an appropriate referral to neurosurgery. If you ask, they will give you a referral for nutrition to help with weight loss or better nutrition if you need these things. On and off you will need return to PT for reminders of exercises et cetera. Mine had his original residency in physician medicine and rehab with a fellowship in pain management. Others in the practice have a background in anesthesia, another common combination. Once pain gets under control, you may only need epidurals once a year or every couple of years. I have stenosis from my neck through my tailbone . Right now I need knee replacements so of course my back and neck are worse. Hang in there and don’t be afraid.

[@shepatown]

@@karensilady5729 Thank you! That sounds like good advice.

[@gardengirl9099]

@@karensilady5729 When you say epidural, are you referring to guided steroid Cortizone injection? I had that done and it was fine but it only lasted two months. The minute I went out and worked in my garden a little bit I instantly felt the pain come back. Don’t know why but It’s very frustrating and I haven’t had another one since. The shot itself was done by guided imagery in a pain center and that alone was so painful.

[@IreneMaxwell]

I agree with all what you have said as i have discovered all the wrong excercises and the best . All of you advice for me is very correct. Thank you ❤

[@HT-Physio]

I'm pleased you agree!

[@the_batmobile0.4]

​@@HT-PhysioSo for someone who has both spinal stenosis and bulging disc are basically crippled ?

[@jimsmith4611]

I now walk as though I'm crippled but when I do the recommended exercises for the condition and use the gym it is defo less painful. I have also started to used CBD regularly and defo notice a change in the severity and frequebcy of the pain. I have a golden retiever that is used to being taken for long walks 3 time a day. Am back to normal with the walks now so not pain free but defoin a better place.

[@daphnebloomfield380]

Thank you for this very informative video. I have spinal stenosis with all the symptoms you have mentioned. I find doing the bridge exercise exacerbates the pain. Is this common and wonder if this exercise is not recommended for sufferers of spinal stenosis? Would greatly appreciate an answer. Thank you.

[@jukip1485]

I do them a couple different ways (rolling back up or straight).....that’s one I got from physio for hips though. I hate it as I always unsure about where to place my feet.

[@artshanti5421]

Thanks for your advise. I'm 55 and starting with severe pain almost 2 years ago. I have SS caused by lumbar arthritis and scoliosis. After receiving 2 blocked injection the pain is getting even worst. I have notice that when I forward bend my back or stretch my spine deeply the pain increases very much as when I do any hyperextension this condition has limited my personal and professional life, even with oxycodone and many others strong medication I feel relieved. I teach yoga and I have quit my personal practice and many of my classes because of this. How can you suggest please?