Spinal Canal Stenosis

Usually results from degenerative changes in the lumbar vertebrae. Predisposing factors include older age, history of back injury or surgery, and manual labor.

Clinical features: Leg pain (neurogenic claudication) and paresthesia that comes on while walking or running and gets better on rest.

Diagnosis: Imaging will show degenerative changes and spondylolisthesis (Sliding of one vertebra over another). MRI is diagnostic.

Treatment: Symptomatic with NSAIDs and physical therapy. Steroid injections(epidural) are rarely used if other methods fail. If features of cord compression are present surgery may be needed.