Spinal stenosis is a medical condition that describes the narrowing of the spinal canal in any region of the spinal column, mostly occurring in the upper and lower backs. The progressive narrowing of the spinal canal results in compression of the tubular nerve tissue that it houses, the spinal cord. Compression of the spinal nerves, which arise from the spinal cord can also occur. Compression of these structures initiates the signs and symptoms commonly seen in spinal stenosis.

The narrowing of the spinal canal is the consequence of the growth of bony projections along the vertebral joints, frequently caused by the degenerative changes in the spine that normally occurs with aging. At times, the reduced diameter of the canal is caused by existing medical conditions of the spine, encouraging the rapid growth of the bone spurs. Osteoarthritis, herniated discs, tumors of the spine, injuries, Paget’s disease and achondroplasia causes of spinal stenosis.

The root cause of spinal degeneration is the wearing - off of the intervertebral discs, the shock absorbers of the vertebral column situated in between two vertebrae. It mainly functions to absorb and minimize pressures placed against the spine and to prevent the two vertebrae from rubbing against each other. As the discs deteriorate, the growth of the bone spurs increases in an attempt to compensate for the bone damage. Bone spurs causes further narrowing of the spine.

The narrowing of the spinal canal does not always cause discomforts and pains. The problems set in when the spinal cord and the spinal nerves are compressed by the narrowing of the canal, commonly resulting in pain and cramping of the legs on prolonged periods of standing and walking. The pain typically radiates from the hips or buttocks, going down towards the back of your legs. Numbness and tingling of the legs, difficulty in walking and other neurological symptoms emerge as spinal stenosis progresses. Compression of the spinal and nerves can partially block the transmission of nerve impulses, resulting in bladder and bowel incontinence. In cases of complete blockage of impulses, paralysis and total loss of sensations occur.

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