Spinal stenosis is defined as the narrowing of the spinal canal, most often in the cervical (neck) area and in the lower back (lumbar) region. This condition places pressure on the spinal cord, with patients most often experiencing problems when inflammation of the nerves occur as the pressure is increased. There are more than 200,000 cases of spinal stenosis per year in the United States, making it a highly treatable condition with a wide variety of options for relief.

While some are born with a congenital form of spinal stenosis, the majority of patients develop this condition as part of the body’s natural aging process and due to general wear and tear of the spine. While it may not be initially apparent, most patients will eventually feel symptoms as the condition progresses.

Because spinal stenosis most often develops in the cervical or lumbar areas of the spine, it is important to note the differences and symptoms to watch for:

• Lumbar spinal stenosis may be reminiscent of sciatica – Causing tingling, weakness, numbness and discomfort in the lower back that radiates through the legs. Patients typically report pain and symptoms that worsen with walking and other lower body-centered activities.
•  Cervical spinal stenosis is directly linked with spinal cord compression (known as myelopathy), which, in extreme cases, can cause very debilitating issues such as weakness or even paralysis. Additionally, patients suffering from cervical spinal stenosis may notice pain, tingling and numbness that radiates from the neck through the shoulders and arms.

The narrowing associated with spinal stenosis is generally either within the spinal canal itself, the canals at the base of the spine or the openings between vertebrae. All of these areas also function as passages where sensitive nerve roots are located and where nerves enter and exit the spine. Because of the proximity of these nerves and nerve roots, even minor narrowing can cause significant pain due to the pressure on them.