Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is a degenerative narrowing of the spinal canal, nerve root canals and/or intervertebral foramina caused by bone and/or ligament hypertrophy in local, segmental or generalized regions. The narrowing results in compression of spinal nerves and nerve roots, causing a constellation of symptoms, including lower back pain, neurogenic claudication and lower extremity pain.

There arc two forms of LSS. Congenital lumbar stenosis is relatively rare and usually presents at an early age, often between 30 and 40. Acquired LSS is more common and generally develops when patients are in their 60s or older. It is a puzzling condition that can neither be predicted nor prevented. It does not distinguish by sex, race or ethnicity. Nor is it associated with particular occupations or any particular body type.

Common Symptoms

• Dull to severe aching pain in the lower back or buttocks-develops with walking or other activity

• Pain radiates into one or both thighs and legs (60% bilateral pain)

• Numbness, weakness or parasthesia involving the lower extremities

• Symptoms relieved by bending forward, sitting or lying down

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SOURCE: NeuroSurgery.org

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