Spinal stenosis is a musculoskeletal condition in which the spinal cord is narrowed, causing pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Spinal stenosis may or may not produce painful symptoms, such as back pain.
Spinal stenosis is more common in older people because, with aging, the bones of the spine move closer together, causing spinal stenosis.
While good nutrition alone cannot cure your spinal stenosis, it can play a great role in managing your symptoms and improving your overall health. Let’s discuss the role of nutrition and diet in managing the symptoms of spinal stenosis and where you can go for spinal stenosis Treatment in Melbourne, FL.
Role of Diet in Spinal Stenosis
Believe it or not, you really are what you consume. As a part of a comprehensive approach to treating or managing spinal stenosis symptoms, a healthy diet can reduce or eliminate painful symptoms. Certain foods, especially those with anti-inflammatory properties, can reduce inflammation in the body and help relieve pain and discomfort in individuals with spinal stenosis. Eating healthy also helps maintain a healthy weight and lose extra weight as extra pounds place additional stress on the spine and worsen the symptoms of spinal stenosis.
Health conditions like osteoporosis also contribute to spinal stenosis. Taking adequate calcium and vitamin D in the diet helps maintain strong bones and prevent osteoporosis.
Since the intervertebral discs between the bones of the spine contain water, adequate hydration is important for spinal health. Drinking enough water prevents dehydration, which could contribute to disc degeneration and spinal stenosis.
On the other hand, certain foods, such as those high in refined sugars, trans fats, and highly processed ingredients, can contribute to inflammation and worsen spinal stenosis pain. Therefore, keeping a food journal to identify the foods that relieve or trigger spinal stenosis symptoms is a good idea.
Here are some dietary considerations for reducing or managing symptoms of spinal stenosis.
Anti-Inflammatory Diet.
Inflammation can cause and contribute to pain and discomfort. Incorporating foods with anti-inflammatory properties, such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, healthy oils, and fatty fish, can keep the inflammation at bay and help improve spinal stenosis symptoms.
Certain spices and herbs like turmeric, garlic, and ginger also possess anti-inflammatory properties that might provide lasting relief from pain and discomfort.
Hydration
As mentioned in the above section, drinking enough water is crucial for maintaining the hydration of the spinal disc and overall bodily functions. It also helps maintain the integrity and functions of the spinal discs. So, always stay hydrated and avoid diuretic beverages like caffeine and alcohol.
If you engage in exercise, make sure to drink water before, during, and after the workout to replenish the fluids lost through sweat during exercise.
Calcium and vitamin D
Calcium and vitamin D are the nutrients that are crucial for the good health of bones. Good dietary sources of calcium include leafy greens, almonds, tofu, fortified plant-based milk alternatives, and dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese.
In addition to fatty fish and cod liver oils, the sun is a good source of vitamin D. However, always wear sunscreen when in the sun.
Spinal Stenosis Treatment in Melbourne, FL
At Central Florida Spine & Pain in Melbourne, Florida, we have a team of pain management specialist who offers a comprehensive range of pain management services to help patients with musculoskeletal problems like spinal stenosis live pain-free lives. Our interventional pain management specialist employs minimally invasive and interventional pain management techniques to provide lasting relief from chronic pain. We also provide our patients with all the necessary education and guidance on lifestyle factors, nutrition, and exercises that they need to manage their condition and find relief from pain.
To schedule a consultation with our pain management specialist, please contact us today at (321) 802-5021 or fill out our online appointment request form now.
