How Common Is Lumbar Spinal Stenosis?

Topic Overview

Lumbar (low back) spinal stenosis is often the result of the aging process, which over time causes the soft tissues and bones in the spine to harden or grow excessively. These changes may narrow the spinal canal and put pressure on the spinal nerve roots. Spinal stenosis is seen most often in adults older than age 50.

Some people develop spinal stenosis because of back problems they are born with. This is known as congenital spinal stenosis. Symptoms of congenital spinal stenosis are often first noticed before age 40.