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Real members of MyChronicPainTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I have spinal stenosis and can barely walk. I've had numerous injectionions and nothing works. I feel like my independence is slipping away.

A MyChronicPainTeam Member asked a question 💭
Mesa, AZ
May 26
 · 
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MyChronicPainTeam

That feeling of losing independence is one of the hardest parts of living with chronic pain, and it's completely valid to feel frustrated when treatments aren't delivering the relief you need. You are absolutely not alone in this.

Since injections haven't been working, there are other options worth exploring with a pain Show Full Answer

That feeling of losing independence is one of the hardest parts of living with chronic pain, and it's completely valid to feel frustrated when treatments aren't delivering the relief you need. You are absolutely not alone in this.

Since injections haven't been working, there are other options worth exploring with a pain specialist. Here are some alternatives that may be worth discussing:

- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) — Uses heat to interrupt pain signals from specific nerves in the spine
- Spinal Cord Stimulation — A device implanted near the spine that disrupts pain signals before they reach the brain
- Surgical Decompression — Removes bone or tissue pressing on nerves, which may be relevant for spinal stenosis specifically
- Intrathecal Pain Pumps — Delivers pain medication directly into spinal fluid in very small doses

Relief duration and effectiveness vary from person to person, so what works for one may not work for another. It's really worth seeking out a pain specialist who has specific experience with spinal stenosis. Not all doctors are equally equipped to manage complex chronic pain, and finding the right one can make a real difference.

Gentle water-based movement, like pool walking or light aquatic exercise, has also helped some MyChronicPainTeam members stay mobile without putting too much strain on the body — though always check with your doctor first.

May 26
A MyChronicPainTeam Member

I do. Always a fine line between moving and pushing too hard as im sure you know

June 5
A MyChronicPainTeam Member

@A MyChronicPainTeam Member Just move. It's one of those thing you just HAVE to make yourself do. It hurts but it will hurt more if you don't!

June 5
A MyChronicPainTeam Member

@A MyChronicPainTeam Member Glad to hear you keep putting one foot in front of the other. It seems worthless at times but it takes longer than we think it should. sigh get support so you don't give up. I'm struggling with that now after a shoulder replacement. So many things came up after it's been discouraging. See what you can do each day in sm increments. Do less until you find it works without hurting yourself. Even when it hurts do it but not long. I'm adding you to my team. Just holler if you need support. hugs, Marty

June 6
A MyChronicPainTeam Member

Im in the same situation but with added scoliosis and osteoarthritis and starting osteoporosis. How can you do light movement without going to far?

June 3

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