Narrowing in the neck carries a consideration the lower back does not — the spinal cord itself runs through it.
Avoid sustained or forced extension
Looking up for long periods, and any exercise requiring the head tipped back, closes the cervical canal.
Avoid neck bridges and head-loaded exercises
Any exercise loading the neck axially is inadvisable with a narrowed canal.
Avoid aggressive neck rotation stretches
Forced end-range rotation, particularly combined with extension, is best avoided.
Avoid overhead pressing with the head tipped back
A common compensation, and one worth correcting.
Take contact and impact sport seriously
This is a conversation to have with your physician rather than a rule of thumb.
These are general suggestions, not a prescription. If any movement sharply increases pain, causes numbness, or sends pain down a limb, stop and get assessed. Advice that suits a disc problem can be exactly wrong for spinal stenosis, which is why a diagnosis comes first.
If pain is not settling, or you are not sure which of these applies to you, get a diagnosis first. Call (314) 310-5577 or request an appointment.
Common questions
What symptoms mean I should be seen urgently?
Clumsiness in the hands, dropping things, difficulty with buttons, unsteadiness walking, or any change in bladder or bowel control. Those suggest cord involvement and need prompt assessment.
Hurt in an accident? Start here.
You do not need a lawyer, a police report or a referral to be seen. Bring your symptoms and we will work out the rest.
Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Same-day appointments are often available for new accident and injury patients.