DefinitionSpinal stenosis is narrowing of the spinal cord that causes pressure on the spinal cord, or narrowing of the openings (called neural foramina) where spinal nerves leave the spinal column.Alternative NamesPseudo-claudication; Central spinal stenosis; Foraminal spinal stenosisCauses, incidence, and risk factorsSpinal stenosis typically develops as a person ages and the disks become drier and start to shrink. At the same time, the bones and ligaments of the spine swell or grow larger due to Arthritis or chronic inflammation.However, other problems, including infection and birth defects, can sometimes cause spinal stenosis.Spinal stenosis may be caused by:Arthritis involving the spine, usually in middle-aged or elderly peopleHerniated or slipped disk, which often occurred in the past