Spinal stenosis is characterized by the narrowing of the central spinal canal, intervertebral foramen, and/or lateral recess within the cervical spine, thoracic spine, or lumbar spine, resulting in progressive nerve root compression.

Epidemiology

Etiology

• Degenerative joint disease (most common)
  • Spondylolisthesis (anterior or posterior)
  • Disk space narrowing (e.g., due to osteoarthritis and/or degenerative disk disease)

Pathophysiology

Clinical features

• Load-dependent lower back pain that worsens with walking
• Neuropathic claudication: a group of neuropathic symptoms affected by postural changes
  • Worsens with lumbar extension (e.g., walking, prolonged standing)
  • Relieved by lumbar flexion (e.g., sitting, laying down, cycling)

Diagnostics

Treatment