Wear and tear type arthritis (osteoarthritis) is one of the most common diseases of old age.  We all get it to different degrees.  With arthritis, the joints become bigger in response to less cartilage cushioning.  This can lead to smaller spaces for the nerves to go through.  This is called stenosis.

There are three main types in the spine: central canal, foraminal, and exit zone.  Patients with stenosis in the low back, complain of standing causing numbness down the legs.  To avoid this, they sit more often or try to use a shopping cart to walk bent over while shopping.  Stenosis in the neck can present with numbness in the hands and feet.

Diagnosis is usually made with MRI or CT-Myelogram.

Stenosis that's not symptomatic can become a problem with instability caused by a traumatic whiplash injury.  Treatment is usually surgery.