What can I do to relieve the pain and numbness?
If you have lumbar spinal canal stenosis, your treatment will depend on how bad your symptoms are. If your pain is mild and you haven't had it long, you can try an exercise program or a physical therapy program. This can strengthen your back muscles and improve your posture. Your doctor may also prescribe medicine to help reduce inflammation (soreness and swelling) in your spine.
If you have more severe symptoms, you may need to see a spine surgeon. The surgeon may recommend an operation to take the pressure off the nerves in your lower spine. This surgery works well for many people.
Written by familydoctor.org editorial staff
Reviewed/Updated: 09/10
Created: 09/00