lateral recess

Lumbar Stenosis

Reduction of space available for neural elements in spinal canal or intervertebral foramina

- due to degenerative changes, congenital abnormalities or both

- involves compression of the thecal sac or nerve roots

Onset 50 - 60's

- M = F

- associated with onset OA spine

Sciatica > 2/52 1.6%

M:F = 1:1

Most common L4/5

L5/S1 inherently stable

Sedentary lifestyle

Smokers

Frequent driving

Heavy lifting

Annulus Fibrosis

- circumferential, multilayered rim