What Are Options Available for Foraminal Stenosis Treatment in Central New Jersey?
Both nonsurgical and surgical treatment options are available.
Nonsurgical Treatment
Nonsurgical treatments are usually recommended first for foraminal stenosis pain relief in NJ, and they include the following:
- Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain medication, such as anti-inflammatory drugs and analgesics, can help relieve pain. For severe pain, you may need to receive a prescription for stronger pain medications, like opioids and narcotics.
- Physical therapy: Doing stretching exercises and strength training can boost flexibility, strengthen core and back muscles and increase range of motion.
- Back bracing: Wearing a brace can provide additional spinal support if abdominal muscles are weak or when degeneration has taken place at different parts of the spine.
- Endoscopic Foraminalplasty: A 1/4 inch incision is made in the back, which gives the surgeon access to the narrowed foramen. The spinal surgeon uses an endoscope and a high-definition camera to view the spinal cord and enlarge the foramen. You’ll be under conscious sedation, meaning you’ll be awake and comfortable throughout the procedure. This reduces any risks associated with general anesthesia.
Surgical Treatment
If nonsurgical treatment doesn’t provide the desired relief, surgical procedures may be recommended. Most of these treatments are minimally invasive procedures, including:
Surgical procedures performed at Spine INA will take pressure off the nerve and relieve the severe symptoms of foraminal stenosis. After that, we provide effective foraminal stenosis pain management for our clients in NJ until they experience a full recovery. Contact us today for more information.
More About Foraminal Stenosis
When the foramen narrows, it can compress the nerves or even the spinal cord. This is called foraminal stenosis. This compression can create a great deal of pain. The condition is more common in the lumbar (or lower) region of the back, and patients who are over the age of 55 are more at risk. It’s a condition that can affect both man and women of any age, though, and can become a seriously painful and debilitating condition.
You may be at great risk of foraminal stenosis if you are:
- Obese
- A smoker
- Lead a sedentary lifestyle
- Don’t get the right nutrition
Post-Operative Recovery
Many of our patients are surprised by how quickly they are able to recover after their procedure. Most patients are able to get out of bed after about an hour and are cleared to go home just a short while later. You may have some pain at the incision site, but some patients report little or no pain. Be sure that you clear any physical labor or resumption of your normal activities with your doctor first. You might need to take some mild pain medication for a little while as your body recovers. Your doctor will give you instructions for at-home after care, including exercises to help you retain your flexibility. If you experience a high level of pain or have any other concerns, you should contact our office right away.
What Is the Long-Term Diagnosis for Foraminal Stenosis Treatment?
Certain foraminal stenosis treatment options, such as our minimally invasive surgical procedures, provide long-term treatment. The effect can last for years as long it’s followed with effective physical therapy.
What Is the Success Rate for Foraminal Stenosis Treatment?
The success rate reported for surgical treatment like lumbar laminectomy to relieve pain from foraminal stenosis is quite high. After a laminectomy, about 80 percent of the patients will have a marked improvement in their ability to perform their normal daily activities. The discomfort and pain, including arm and leg pain connected with the condition, also diminish rapidly.