The foraminal space is the space created by two cervical vertebrae and an intervertebral disc. There is one on each side at each level in the neck. The foraminal space allows the nerve root to exit on either side. Foraminal stenosis can occur when there is narrowing of the foraminal space which can lead to irritation of the nerve root. This can result in neck pain and neural symptoms.
Symptoms associated with foraminal stenosis vary greatly. They can be dependent on many factors, including the individual, pain mechanisms, aggravating factors etc.
There are many factors that can contribute to the development of cervical foraminal stenosis.
– Prolonged or repetitive adverse loading
– Lifestyle factors
– Poor poor movement strategies
– Muscle imbalances and strength deficits
– Poor motor patterning
– Age
– Genetics
– Individual anatomical variations
– Injury history
DIAGNOSE
Diagnosis is a vital part of managing any injury. Not only is it important to determine which structures are responsible for our symptoms, but why they have become symptomatic. Addressing the ‘why’ will ensure adequate recovery and prevention of future injury. Our Geelong Physiotherapists will work with you to ensure an accurate diagnosis of your injury.
EDUCATION
It is important that you have an understanding of your diagnosis, and what strategies are important for acute management, and reduction of future injury risk
MOTOR CONTROL
As a contributor to neck pain is often deficits in postural strength, endurance, stability, patterns of muscle activation etc., these need to be accurately assessed and improved
MANUAL THERAPIES
Manual therapies include: Soft tissue techniques, dry needling, joint mobilisation / manipulation etc.; these may be used to assist with symptoms
ACTIVITY MODIFICATION
You will often be advised to modify provocative activities to allow tissue recovery
STRENGTHENING
Strengthening is a vital part of management for neck pain; this often involves progressions into a gym environment to ensure we are appropriately challenging tissues to strengthen, and improving their tolerance to daily living
REFERRAL
As with any injury, sometimes referral to other professionals is required in the management of neck pain. This may include referral for imaging, referral to your GP, or referral pain specialists or orthopaedic surgeons
If you have any questions about your neck pain or possible cervical foraminal stenosis, please do not hesitate to contact us on (03) 5229 3911, email us at info@theinjuryclinic.com.au or book an appointment to see one of our Geelong physiotherapists.
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