Numb limbs, an aching back, cramping — sounds like old age, right? While these and similar symptoms may check all the stereotypical “I’m getting older” boxes, your age may have very little to do with them. In fact, these seemingly unrelated symptoms may all be linked to spinal stenosis. FEELING THE SQUEEZE Spinal stenosis is a condition caused by a constricting of the channel within your spine. This space is where your nerves run from your brain all the way down to your lower body, and the “squeezing” of this core part of your nervous system doesn’t just cause pain. Inflamed nerves can cause a host of odd sensations throughout your body. A PAIN IN THE NECK — OR BACK This condition normally takes place in one of two areas along your spine: your neck or your lower
back. Both forms of spinal stenosis cause pain in the narrowed area and can cause your legs to become numb or weak. When stenosis occurs in the neck, you may also have numbness in your arms, and, in extreme cases, may experience bowel or bladder dysfunction. Stenosis in the lower back can cause prolonged leg cramps when standing or walking. Long story short, neither condition is enjoyable. IS THERE A CURE? Sadly, no. In extreme cases surgery can be used to relieve pressure on the spine, but this procedure is not without risks. The best thing someone living with spinal stenosis can do is exercise. By strengthening the muscles in your arms and legs, you can minimize or eliminate symptoms and manage pain. Better still, staying active will improve your balance and overall
mobility, reducing the impact of stenosis on your everyday life.
Of course, finding the right exercises for you, targeting the affected areas of your body, and improving
your mobility can be difficult. This is especially true if your balance has been severely affected. We understand these
Sudoku challenges and are here to help. Mike holds regular workshops designed to educate you on the causes and treatment for lower back pain and sciatica. If you’re living with spinal stenosis, give us a call. We’d be happy to save you a spot for the next lesson!
Basil Berry Sorbet
Unlike standard ice cream recipes, this delicious sorbet doesn’t require fancy equipment or difficult prep. It’s also entirely dairy- free, making it the perfect vegan treat for the end of summer.
INGREDIENTS • 1 cup sugar • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 6 cups frozen mixed berries • 3/4 cup fresh lemon juice
DIRECTIONS 1. In a saucepan over high heat, combine sugar with one cup of water, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves, creating a syrup-like consistency. 2. Remove syrup from heat, add basil, cover, and let stand for 15 minutes. Strain syrup into bowl and refrigerate until cold. 3. In a blender, combine syrup with frozen berries and lemon juice. Purée until smooth. 4. Transfer to a square baking pan, cover in plastic wrap, and freeze until set, about 2 hours. 5. Scoop and serve.
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