Spinal stenosis is a condition that occurs when the channels in the spine that contain the spinal cord and nerve roots becomes narrowed or restricted. Stenosis is the medical term for narrowing. Spinal stenosis can squeeze nerves and the spinal cord and can lead to pain in the lower back and legs or in the neck, arms, and hands, depending on where the narrowing is located. Although spinal stenosis can be found in any part of the spine, the lumbar and cervical areas are most commonly affected.

If the stenosis is located in the lower part of the spine, it is called lumbar spinal stenosis (see illustration below). If it is in the upper part of the spine, it is called cervical spinal stenosis.

Spinal stenosis is common and is usually caused by osteoarthritis of the spinal column. People suffering from spinal stenosis may have trouble walking for any length of time or for long distances, and may need to sit down frequently or lean over to relieve the pain. Or they may have tingling, pain, or numbness that runs down their arm and into the hand.

Symptoms of spinal stenosis can vary a great deal. There may be no symptoms at all, since narrowing of the channels in the vertebrae does not always compress the spinal cord or nerves.

Lumbar spinal stenosis can cause pain or cramping in your legs when you stand for long periods of time or when you walk. The discomfort usually eases if you bend forward or sit down, but comes back when you stand upright. This pain is called pseudoclaudication, false claudication, or neurogenic intermittent claudication.

A herniated disk can compress nerves in your lumbar spine leading to pain that starts in your hip or buttocks and extends down the back of your leg. The pain is worse when you're sitting and generally affects only one hip and leg. Other symptoms may include numbness, weakness, or tingling in the leg or foot. The pain may be minor or severe.

Cervical spinal stenosis can cause pain in the neck and shoulders. The pain may be occasional or chronic and can also range from mild to severe. It may radiate down your arm or hand. Cervical spinal stenosis can also cause headaches, numbness, or muscle weakness. It can also affect the nerves that control your balance, which can lead to clumsiness or a tendency to fall.

In severe cases of spinal stenosis, nerves to the bladder or bowel may be compressed, which can lead to partial or complete incontinence. Anyone who experiences problems controlling their bladder or bowels should seek immediate medical attention.