Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spaces in the spine that results in pressure on the spinal cord and/or the nerve roots.

This usually involves narrowing of one or more of the following three areas of the spine:

  • The canal in the center of the column of bones (vertebrae) that the spinal cord and nerves run through.
  • The canals at the base or roots of the nerves that branch out from the spinal cord.
  • The openings between the vertebrae that the nerves leave the spine and go to the rest of the body.

This condition is common in people over the age of 50 years of age, but may also occur in younger people who are born with narrowing in their spinal cord or who have suffered an injury to their spine.

What Causes Spinal Stenosis?

The normal vertebral canal provides adequate room for the spinal cord. Narrowing of the canal, however, can be inherited or acquired.

Inherited forms of spinal stenosis include being born with a small spinal canal, having a curvature of the spinal (scoliosis), or having a condition called achondroplasia, which involves defective bone formation that reduces the distance across the spinal cord.

Acquired forms of spinal stenosis are often gradual and worsen as we age. These can begin as either structural or inflammatory processes. Here are some examples of some of these degenerative causes:

  • Bones and joints of the spine enlarge and project out from the vertebrae, also known as osteophytes (bone spurs).
  • Herniated (bulging) discs can place pressure on the spinal cord or nerve root.
  • Spondylolisthesis, a condition where one vertebra slips forward on another, may be the result of degenerative changes or an accident.
  • Osteoarthritis can affect any joint in the body, including the facet joints in the spine (spondylosis).
  • Tumors of the spine.
  • Trauma (accidents) that result in fractures to the vertebrae in the spine (i.e., burst fractures).

The following are some of the most common symptoms of spinal stenosis:

  • Neck or back pain
  • Burning pain in buttocks or legs (sciatica)
  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness
  • Trouble walking or loss of balance
  • Muscle spasms

Spinal Stenosis Treatments


The following are treatment options if you or a loved one suffer from Spinal Stenosis:

Nonsurgical Treatments            Surgical Treatments


Learn More About Spinal Stenosis 


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Connecticut Orthopaedic Institute at St. Vincent's Medical Center