Spinal stenosis is a condition where the space around the spinal cord begins to narrow causing the spinal cord and nerve roots to become compressed. This condition is fairly common due to the natural aging process.

The neck and lower back are the two most common locations for spinal stenosis. If located in the neck, it is called cervical spinal stenosis. If located in the lower back, it is referred to as lumbar spinal stenosis.

There are two types of spinal stenosis: primary and acquired. Primary spinal stenosis is rare and means that one has had it since birth. Acquired spinal stenosis typically comes from a spinal injury or disease. The most common cause of spinal stenosis is osteoarthritis, a degenerative cartilage disease due to aging.