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May 23, 2013
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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.

Related Information

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerWilliam H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerRobert B. Keller, MD - Orthopedics
Last RevisedFebruary 13, 2012

eMedicineHealth Medical Reference from Healthwise

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