Spinal stenosis .. Life adjustments

Depends on the type of stenosis. Mine was foraminal...that's where two vertebrae get compressed (too close together) so the nerve roots at that spot, which run through the foraminal canals, get pinched off. My symptom was extreme fatigue in both legs...could barely walk...plus lower back pain. The permanent solution to foraminal stenosis is a single-level fusion of the two vertebrae.

I was already fused L3 through S1 and the problem was a L2/L3. Instead of ripping everything out and re-fusing me L2 through S1, the neurosurgeon performed a Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion (LLIF) where they go in from the side (not the back) and insert a device that acts like a car jack. After insertion and positioning, they expand the device so that it separates the vertebrae, opening the foramina and taking the pressure off the nerve roots.

Miracle op!!! One hospital overnight, no brace, no rehab. All pain instantly gone. Search YouTube for "Globus LLIF Technique" for an animation of the op and then "Globus Calibur" to see an animation of one of the many devices that can be used based on case and anatomy.

Again, this works for FORAMINAL stenosis; your husband may have a different type requiring an alternate procedure. Here's how mine looks...

So sorry to hear about your husband's pain. I've been battling with various forms of back injury for almost 20 years now and have also reached the point where there is no easy surgical solution. Here are a couple of practical tips:

(1) Stiffening up is the real enemy. Don't stay in any one position (sitting, standing, laying down) for more than 45 minutes if you can.

(2) Obviously we have to stay laying down while we sleep, so try sleeping with a pillow between the knees. It forces you to sleep with the best possible spine posture.

(3) Try to be disciplined about doing stretching exercises every day and if possible, try to work on core strengthening.

(4) Don't try to be a hero by avoiding pain meds. This kind of pain is what they are appropriate for. Find a good pain management specialist and work with him to find the right medications to bring the pain down to a functional level.

(5) I know you said your husband can't have a major surgery like a spinal fusion, but ask a spinal specialist about a Spinal Cord Stimulator. It's an electrical device which can confuse the pain signal on its path to the brain. If it works for you it is healthier than being on narcotics over the long term. And the implantation surgery is pretty minor, it can be done on an out-patient basis. I have one inside me and it has helped tremendously.

Good luck...

I feel your pain. I have had 5 surgeries 2 fusions failed, spinal stenosis. 4 bulging discs 4 nerve impingemen & more. The ultimate would be a spinal cord stimulator. Temporarily ice, heat, meds, pillow under knees or on your side between knees. Stretches 2 or 3 times a day. Bio feedback will help you relax and teach you to be able to lower pain 1 to 2 points for a short but rewarding time. Good luck.

Thank you both very very much.

I worry because I feel he's given up on life .. which is a not a good thing.

The 'stumlator' looks promisisng ..

Thank you again.

Jo

I was diagnosed with spinal stenosis in my lumbar and neck in 2014,was on the highest doses of cocodamol,pregabalin,nortryptaline but was still in constant pain.But last year i had facet joint injections and am now off all medication.I do still get some lumbar pain as the medication wears off as it only lasts around 6 months.Maybe this treatment could be an option for your husband to consider ?

I have it too but prettyuch the whole way down. Die to scolliosis mainly. Had an injextion in lower. Ack but didnt doalot. In my neck last week i had a ct guided injection into my neck. This does seem to be helping so far with my neck/Arms. Its trial amd error....... But yes its constant awful pain. Im still on about 5 or 6 meds for main back.