Spinal stenosis is created by the narrowing of the spinal canal which may be causedby mechanical problems or by abnormalities in the aging spine. It may or may not result in low-back pain, limping, and a lack of feeling in the legs.  

Stenosis is often a degenerative condition. It may exist for years without causing pain or discomfort, but a fall or an accident can trigger characteristic stenotic pain. Numerous factors can cause stenosis, such as thickened ligaments, expanding infection, abscess, a congenital or developmental anomaly, degenerative changes, vertebral fractures or dislocations, or a spinal cord tumor.

How is spinal stenosis diagnosed?
Spinal stenosis can be diagnosed based on the history of symptoms, a physical examination, and imaging tests. An MRI is a very poor predictor of future disability in stenosis; an electrodiagnostic study is more dependable. To diagnose stenosis caused by an abscess or an infection, blood work analyzed by a laboratory may be required, while vertebral tumors and spinal tumors require finely tuned imaging.

How is spinal stenosis treated?
There are three basic treatment approaches to spinal stenosis: the conservative medical approach, which frequently involves bed rest, analgesics, local heat, and muscle relaxants; the conservative chiropractic approach, which includes manipulation, exercise and self-care techniques; and surgery. The source of the stenosis often dictates the treatment.

Ultimately, stenosis is a chronic condition that cannot be "cured," but it often can be improved, and improvement can be maintained over the long term. Patients can work with a health care provider, such as a doctor of chiropractic, to reduce symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Stress and nutrition have always been linked - it's a fact. Someone with a healthy, balanced diet is likely to be far less stressed than someone with a poor diet. Healthy, nutritious food and breathing

exercises are the simplest methods for relieving stress. These methods are not only cost-effective but readily available - and without any side effects.  

Foods with high vitamin and mineral levels actively help to reduces stress levels. Among foods that are good for helping to reduce stress:

• Water

• Fresh vegetables

• Fresh fruits

• Fish

• Soups

• Yogurts

• Herbal products

There are certain foods and drinks that can aggravate stress. It doesn't necessarily mean that you should avoid these completely, just consume them in moderation:

• Tea, coffee, cocoa, energy drinks

• Fast food

• Butter, cheese

• Meat and shellfish

• Sugar

• Alcohol

• Soda, soft drinks and chocolate drinks

• Almonds, macadamias and other nuts

• Coconut oil

Tea, coffee, cocoa and energy drinks may be refreshing when you're tired, but they also contain neuro-stimulators like caffeine and theo-bromine, which are proven to heighten stress. Stress makes you anxious - further stimulation can heighten this anxiety and even cause insomnia.