Orthopedics & Sports Medicine
What Is Spinal Stenosis?
Last reviewed: May 2026 · Haute MD Editorial Team
Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses the spinal cord and nerve roots, causing pain, numbness, weakness, and in severe cases, bowel or bladder dysfunction. The most common cause is degenerative changes — disc herniation, facet joint hypertrophy, and ligamentum flavum thickening — typically in adults over 50. Lumbar stenosis causes neurogenic claudication (leg pain and weakness with walking).
Key considerations
Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses the spinal cord and nerve roots, causing pain, numbness, weakness, and in severe cases, bowel or bladder dysfunction. The most common cause is degenerative changes — disc herniation, facet joint hypertrophy, and ligamentum flavum thickening — typically in adults over 50. Lumbar stenosis causes neurogenic claudication (leg pain and weakness with walking).
When to seek physician guidance
A board-certified orthopedic specialist can evaluate your specific condition with a thorough physical examination, imaging when indicated, and a review of prior treatments. They will design a stepped care plan — typically beginning with conservative measures and escalating only when warranted by your symptoms, function, and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this most relevant for?
Adults experiencing musculoskeletal pain, injury, or dysfunction that affects daily activity, sleep, work, or sport. A physician evaluation determines whether conservative care, regenerative medicine, or surgical intervention is most appropriate for your specific case.
Is treatment covered by insurance?
Most diagnostic evaluations, physical therapy, injections, and indicated surgeries are covered by insurance when medically necessary. Some regenerative therapies (PRP, stem cell) may be considered investigational and not covered. Verify benefits with your insurer and the practice in advance.
What is the first step?
Schedule a consultation with a board-certified orthopedic specialist whose fellowship training matches your condition. Expect a detailed history, physical examination, review of imaging, and discussion of conservative options before any surgical recommendation.
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