What is spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis refers to the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can lead to compression of the nerve roots or the spinal cord itself. This condition can cause various symptoms, including pain, numbness, weakness, and tingling, particularly in the lower back and legs, as the narrowed canal exerts pressure on the nerve structures.

This definition aligns closely with the characteristics of spinal stenosis, as the condition can occur due to various factors such as the aging process, degenerative disc disease, or congenital factors. The result is often a reduction in available space within the spine, which can become increasingly problematic, especially during activities that require movement or weight-bearing.

The other options describe different conditions related to the spine but do not accurately define spinal stenosis. For example, the abnormal side-to-side curvature of the spine refers to scoliosis, while increased curvature of the thoracic spine is known as kyphosis. An infection within the spinal column would be classified as osteomyelitis or discitis and is not related to the narrowing of the spinal canal. Each of these conditions has distinct features and implications, differentiating them clearly from spinal stenosis.