Physical Therapy for spinal stenosis

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Mobile Rehab provides in-home, outpatient Physical Therapy for seniors.

Convenient

Personalized

Covered by insurance

Locally owned and operated in North Carolina since 2004

What is spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is a condition where the spinal canal narrows, which can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This can cause a range of symptoms, including pain, numbness, and weakness in the back, legs, and arms.

There are two main types of spinal stenosis:

Lumbar stenosis: This is the most common type of spinal stenosis and occurs in the lower back. It can cause symptoms such as pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs, as well as problems with balance and coordination.
Cervical stenosis: This type of spinal stenosis occurs in the neck and can cause symptoms such as pain, numbness, and weakness in the arms, as well as problems with balance and coordination.

Spinal stenosis can be caused by a range of factors, including age-related changes to the spine, spinal injuries, and conditions such as arthritis and scoliosis. Treatment options for spinal stenosis depend on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause, but may include physical therapy, medication, and surgery.

Source: American Association of Neurological Surgeons

What are the symptoms of spinal stenosis?

The symptoms of spinal stenosis can vary depending on the location and severity of the narrowing in the spinal canal. Here are some common symptoms of spinal stenosis:

Pain: This is the most common symptom of spinal stenosis. Pain may be felt in the back, buttocks, thighs, or calves. The pain may be described as a dull ache or a sharp, shooting pain.
Numbness or tingling: Spinal stenosis can cause numbness or tingling in the arms, legs, or feet. This can range from a mild tingling sensation to a complete loss of feeling.
Weakness: Spinal stenosis can cause weakness in the arms or legs, making it difficult to perform daily activities such as walking or climbing stairs.
Cramping: Some people with spinal stenosis may experience cramping in their legs, particularly during physical activity.
Loss of bladder or bowel control: In severe cases, spinal stenosis can cause a loss of bladder or bowel control. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment.

The symptoms of spinal stenosis can develop gradually over time, and may be worsened by activities such as standing or walking. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to talk to your doctor, who can help to diagnose the condition and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Source: American College of Rheumatology

What causes spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Age-related changes: As we age, the spine can undergo wear and tear that can cause the spinal canal to narrow. This is the most common cause of spinal stenosis.
Arthritis: Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can cause the growth of bone spurs, which can narrow the spinal canal and compress the nerves.
Herniated discs: A herniated disc can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, causing spinal stenosis.
Trauma: Injuries to the spine can cause spinal stenosis, particularly if there is a fracture or dislocation.
Congenital defects: Some people are born with a narrower spinal canal, which can put them at a higher risk for developing spinal stenosis later in life.
Tumors: Spinal tumors can cause the spinal canal to narrow, which can lead to spinal stenosis.
Paget's disease: This is a rare condition that can cause the bones to grow abnormally, leading to spinal stenosis.

While some people may be more at risk for developing spinal stenosis due to certain factors such as age, genetics, or congenital defects, the condition can also develop without any apparent cause. If you are experiencing symptoms of spinal stenosis, it is important to talk to your doctor, who can help to diagnose the condition and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Source: Johns Hopkins Medicine

How can physical therapy help with spinal stenosis?

Physical therapy can be an effective treatment for spinal stenosis, particularly in cases where the condition is mild to moderate. A physical therapist can work with you to develop an exercise program that can help to strengthen the muscles around the spine, improve flexibility, and alleviate symptoms. Here are some ways that physical therapy can help with spinal stenosis:

Strengthening exercises: Strengthening exercises can help to build the muscles in the back, abdomen, and legs, which can help to support the spine and alleviate pressure on the nerves.
Stretching exercises: Stretching exercises can help to improve flexibility and range of motion, which can reduce stiffness and alleviate pain.
Posture and body mechanics: A physical therapist can teach you proper posture and body mechanics, which can help to reduce pressure on the spine and alleviate symptoms.
Pain management techniques: A physical therapist can teach you techniques for managing pain, such as heat and ice therapy, massage, and relaxation techniques.

It is important to note that physical therapy may not be appropriate for all cases of spinal stenosis, particularly in cases where the condition is severe or has caused significant damage to the spine. In these cases, surgery may be necessary. Your doctor can help to determine if physical therapy is appropriate for your specific case of spinal stenosis.

Source: Mayo Clinic

Frequently asked questions

Meet our therapists

Click below to learn more about all of our therapists in your area

Patients trust Mobile Rehab

The physical therapist came to our house and carefully reviewed our case. He designed therapies and strategies that have worked well for us. For example, my husband could not get off the floor by himself and I could not lift him when he fell. Together we learned techniques to cope with this situation in our home. Joshua designed fun and effective exercises to improve strength and flexibility. My husband can now get in and out of chairs and cars without help and walks more easily. Since we used equipment in and around the home, my husband can remember and apply what he has learned. Mobile Rehab accepted our insurance and worked out approval to provide services. We did not need a referral from our doctor. My husband and I highly recommend Mobile Rehab if you or a loved one needs physical therapy.Jerry from Pittsboro

I wanted to tell you how much better I think Mom is since starting your PT. She has been less off balance, quicker to equilibrate to standing, and has had more stamina. I also think she is less depressed and feels more accomplished. Josh has been prompt and polite, as well as engaging in conversation to make Mom feel at ease. Thank you!Karen Pool - Google Review

In my many years of experience with PT for a variety of injuries, I have never worked with a therapist as knowledgeable, energetic, patient, and committed to my recovery and health as Celeste. She is interested in the cause of the problem and finding solutions, rather than only dealing with superficial symptoms. The manual work she does always leaves me feeling better and the exercises/stretches she has taught me target exactly where the problems lie. I can tell that I’m noticeably stronger and more flexible because of them. Anyone who gets to work with Celeste is lucky indeed! Judy R - 72 years young 😉

Both my husband and I are working with Amy, a PT for Mobile Rehab. She has been helping me after knee replacement surgery, and is working with my husband with balance, strengthening and walking. She is a gem! She is enthusiastic, engaging, and always positive. I would gladly recommend Amy and Mobile Rehab to anyone who needs physical therapy!Mona Harrison - Google Review

Oh my goodness, I cannot say enough good things about my therapist, Jennifer. After having a complete shoulder replacement and being discharged by my doctor, he recommended that I could still need therapy to help get me back to “normal”. My friend in Asheville recommended Jennifer to me. I set up an appointment and Jen showed up, right on time, at my apartment with her folding table in tow. She was so knowledgeable about how my shoulder worked, the muscles, tendons and the rotator cuff. After working on the painful spots I complained about, she set up a plan to work out the stiffness and soreness. Now, after 2 visits per week for four weeks, I feel like a new woman. At her last visit, she gave me the coping skills I needed to keep my shoulder in good shape. I am so impressed with her work that I recommend her highly as my most favored therapist.Jane Cumby - Google Review

Deb's professional manner is greatly appreciated as she continues to help me maintain my mobility with a variety of exercises and movements. Her positive attitude during my sessions gives me a sense of well-being.Nancy C. - Google Review

Erin Rankin and Cheryl Reid are skilled physical therapists. As a Parkinson's patient, I have benefited greatly from their expertise. I feel that by keeping my muscles stretched, I have contributed to my current state of mobility. If they are going to be a few minutes late, they are thoughtful and considerate by sending a text to me. When scheduling appointments, efforts are made to accommodate my specific timing needs. Due to the longevity of our relationships, levels of trust have been built. Their pleasant personalities add to the care they give. I look forward to seeing them each week. Nancy C - Google Review

The therapist from Mobile Rehab has been fantastic and very helpful to me. She clearly is the best PT I have ever had.Laureen F of Chapel Hill

Each time a PT moves on we think no one could be as good and them amazingly they seem to be even better. Have used for years and always with great satisfactionSue Clark - Google Review

I have been so impressed with Mobile Rehab. I've been working with Lacey K. DPT. post-op for a knee replacement. She is extremely professional, answers all of my questions and it seems not to bother her if I ask the same question again! She works me hard and that's what I need. She'll tell me either I'm doing it right or will correct me in a very calm and pleasant manner. Lacey explains everything I'm doing and why. I can't say enough good things about Mobile Rehab especially Lacey!Mary Beth Bryman - Google Review

Use your insurance or pay privately

No prescription is needed to start. Mobile Rehab is covered by insurance and provides in-home physical therapy.

Medicare

$0 per visit

Many Medicare plans with a supplement policy will cover all of our fees.

Commercial Insurance

Same as a clinic

Pay the same copay as if you went to a clinic for therapy. We accept many major insurances and will verify your benefits before starting.

Private Pay

$120

Easy payment options available.

HOW TO GET STARTED

Contact Us by Phone, Email, or Fax
We’ll help you check your insurance benefits. You do not need to be homebound and you should not be currently receiving any other physical therapy or skilled nursing services in the home.
Schedule an Evaluation
We will match you with a therapist and have them contact you to plan a date, time and location that works best for you.
It’s That Easy!
We make it simple to get the care you need… and exceed your expectations while doing so.

SERVICES

Fall Prevention

We provide research-based, individualized fall prevention interventions that have been shown to greatly reduce your risk of falling and injuries, including the OTAGO fall prevention program.

Click here to
learn more about OTAGO

General Rehab

Avoid driving to a clinic and get the individualized care you deserve. We work with many conditions ranging from post-stroke, Parkinson’s, vertigo to rotator cuff dysfunction and much more. Contact us for details.

After Home Health

We can improve care continuity by providing in home therapy even after you have been discharged by a Home Health agency. Avoid the hassle of driving and continue to make progress towards your goals.

Strength and Conditioning

We can help you improve your strength, mobility, range of motion, or any other functional limitations that impair your daily activity.

Pain Relief

We develop individualized care plans to help manage your aches and pains through exercise and hands-on techniques.