Narrowing within the vertebrae of the spinal column that results in compression or pinching on the spinal cord or the spinal nerves. It is usually the result of degeneration within the spine. Spinal stenosis may occur in the neck (cervical) or in the lower back (lumbar). Lumbar spinal stenosis usually causes pain, numbness, tingling and/or burning in your back, buttocks or legs. Symptoms are usually worse when walking and standing and relieved when sitting down. Cervical spinal stenosis causes pain, numbness, tingling and/or burning in the shoulders and arms.
The Physical Therapists at Apple Physical Therapy will design a personalized treatment plan specific to you and your injury that will include special exercises to take the pressure off of the nerves to relieve pain. Stretching and flexibility exercises to improve mobility in the joints and muscles of your spine, arms and legs will be added. We will also incorporate specific strengthening exercises focused on your core musculature and the muscles of your shoulders, arms and legs. Aerobic exercise to increase tolerance for activities such as walking that might have been affected by the spinal stenosis. Manual therapy (gentle hands-on techniques) such as massage and stretching may be used to improve the mobility of stiff joints and tight muscles that may be contributing to your symptoms. We will talk to you about posture and educate you on the best way for you to sit, stand and walk to help relieve your pain and help you manage your condition. If necessary, your PT may elect to use modalities such as heat, ice and/or electrical stimulation to help reduce pain and ready the body for exercise.
With convenient locations in both Cherry Hill NJ and Marlton NJ, Apple Physical Therapy proudly serves such areas as Cherry Hill, Marlton, Medford, Voorhees, Mount Laurel, Maple Shade, Berlin, Moorestown and all of South Jersey’s Camden and Burlington counties. If you are looking for a Physical Therapist in the Cherry Hill area, we welcome you to our practice. Meet our team and schedule your appointment with us today!