03/11/2026
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis happens when the space inside the spine is too small. This can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves in the spine. Spinal stenosis happens most often in the lower back and in the neck.
Some people with spinal stenosis have no symptoms. Others may have pain, tingling, numbness and muscle weakness. Symptoms may get worse over time.
Spinal stenosis becomes more common with age. The condition often is linked to wear-and-tear damage in the spine due to arthritis. Medicines and physical therapy may help ease symptoms of spinal stenosis. People who have serious spinal stenosis may need surgery.
Surgery can make more space inside the spine. That can ease the symptoms caused by pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. But surgery can't cure arthritis, so arthritis pain in the spine may last even after surgery.
Symptoms
In many people, spinal stenosis doesn't cause any symptoms. When symptoms do happen, they typically start slowly, and they can get worse over time. Symptoms depend on which part of the spine is affected by spinal stenosis.
In the lower back
Spinal stenosis in the lower back can cause pain or cramping in one or both legs. This typically happens when standing for a long time or walking. Symptoms get better when bending forward or sitting. Spinal stenosis in the lower back also may cause back pain. Rarely, spinal stenosis in the lower back may cause bladder or bowel changes.
In the neck
Spinal stenosis in the neck can cause:
Numbness.
Tingling or weakness in an arm, hand, leg or foot.
Trouble with walking and balance.
Trouble with fine motor skills, such as writing, tying shoelaces, or using a knife and fork.
Neck pain.
Bladder or bowel changes.