Stenosis

Lumbar Stenosis

Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment

Signs and Symptoms

Stenosis, the narrowing of the bony canal that protects the spinal cord and its branching nerves, in the lower back is often characterized by radiating pain in the buttocks and legs. Frequently people afflicted with lumbar stenosis have varying degrees of low back discomfort. The pain typically occurs most often during activities and is relieved by resting, sitting or bending forward. In some cases, the pain is centralized in the lower legs and feet. In severe cases, it also can impact continence and sexual function.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated May 8, 2007