Is My Back Pain Normal, or Is It Spinal Stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spaces within your spine, which puts pressure on the nerves, leading to pain and discomfort. Anokhi Mehta, MD, Virtua pain medicine specialist, explains the symptoms and treatments available.

woman holding her lower back in pain while discussing with her doctor

Updated November 19, 2024

By Anokhi Mehta, MD, Virtua Pain Medicine Specialist

What is spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spaces within your spine. This narrowing can put pressure on the nerves that travel through your spine, leading to pain and discomfort.

Most people who develop spinal stenosis are over 50. Causes include:

Bone overgrowth prompted by osteoarthritis, including bone spurs
Herniated disks
Ligaments that become thick and stiff over time, intruding on the spinal canal
Tumors or abnormal growths on the spine
Spinal injuries

Spinal stenosis may occur in the neck (cervical stenosis) or the lower back (lumbar stenosis). Lumbar stenosis is the most common type of this condition.

What are some common symptoms of spinal stenosis?

Not everyone with spinal stenosis experiences symptoms. When they do occur, they may start gradually and worsen over time. Symptoms can be similar to other causes of back pain, so it’s important to see your doctor.

Cervical stenosis can be indicated by:

Numbness, tingling, or weakness in a foot, leg, hand, or arm
Neck pain
Difficulties walking or keeping your balance
Severe cases may include urinary urgency or lack of control over your bowels

Lumbar stenosis can be indicated by:

Numbness, tingling, or weakness in a leg or foot
Cramping or pain in one or both legs when you stand for a long period or walk; this usually resolves when you sit or bend forward
Back pain

Left untreated, spinal stenosis can lead to numbness, weakness, balance difficulties, incontinence, and/or paralysis.

If your symptoms are mild, your back specialist may recommend pain relievers and physical therapy. If these don’t help or your pain is more severe, your doctor may prescribe steroid injections or surgery to relieve the pressure in your neck or lower back.