SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Jan. 6, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A Scottsdale chiropractor is spreading the word about non-surgical alternatives for the treatment of spinal stenosis. According to Dr. Daniel Secrest of Secrest Family Chiropractic, spinal adjustment and massage therapy can help relieve pressure on the spinal nerves caused by this degenerative, progressive condition. "While advanced cases of stenosis may call for surgical intervention, we want people to know they may be able to get relief from back pain or other symptoms without the need for surgery," says Dr. Secrest. "Our methods also provide a natural pain management solution for patients who prefer not to take or have an adverse reaction to medication."
Spinal stenosis involves a narrowing of the space inside the spinal column that accommodates the spinal cord. Dr. Secrest explains that a variety of triggers can cause the condition. "The vertebrae have a series of joints toward the rear that surround the spinal cord as a protective ring," he says. "A herniated disc, overgrowth of vertebral bone or significant vertebral displacement can reduce the space until the spinal cord or its nerve branches are compressed." He also cites a thickening of nearby connective tissues, infections, tumors, or a congenital deformity in the vertebrae as possible causes of stenosis. Symptoms may vary according to the location of the stenosis. Lumbar stenosis may cause back pain and sciatica symptoms, while cervical stenosis may cause arm pain, numbness or tingling in the hands, and possibly even paralysis or incontinence.
Dr. Secrest notes that while surgery has long served as a traditional treatment for various forms of spinal stenosis, the procedure is not without downside risks and is not always necessary unless the condition is severe. "Surgery may offer relief from back pain and other stenosis symptoms, but it also requires a lengthy and painful recuperation period of its own. During this time the patient has no choice but to rely on painkillers for pain management, and these medications can produce dependence and other side effects." In the majority of mild to moderate stenosis cases, he says, periodic chiropractic treatment, coupled with massage therapy to relax strained muscles and enhance healing, can keep the condition under control without the need for either of the other options.
The Scottsdale chiropractor makes use of several non-invasive therapeutic techniques in his treatment of spinal stenosis and other musculoskeletal conditions. "Manual spinal adjustment can prove extremely helpful in relieving the nerve pressure caused by stenosis," he says. He also employs a technique known as Koren Specific Technique, or KST, which allows for more precise diagnosis and gentler adjustments. "We would like to help stenosis patients achieve significant relief from back pain or other symptoms through adjustment and massage therapy rather than major surgery if possible," he says.
Secrest Family Chiropractic also helps Tempe and Mesa residents suffering from auto accident injuries, personal injuries, sports injuries and chronic conditions.