Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of space inside the spine that may compress the spinal cord or nerve roots. It typically develops later in life as a result of degenerative changes in the spine that occur with aging.

People with spinal stenosis may experience a variety of symptoms. Some patients have cramping, pain or numbness in their legs, back, neck, shoulders or arms. Others have problems with bladder or bowel function.

Methods of diagnosing spinal stenosis include imaging tests such as MRI.

Treatment options may include exercise, physical therapy, medications, injection therapy or nonsurgical spinal decompression. In more serious cases, a physician may recommend spine surgery to create more space for the spinal cord or nerves.