Cervical spinal stenosis in the neck is a common problem characterized by a narrowing of the space surrounding the spinal cord, called the spinal canal. Inflammation or compression from one of the spine’s structures can decrease space in the spinal canal, placing pressure on the spinal cord. Pressure on the spinal cord can cause symptoms in different body parts, particularly the arms and legs. Cervical spinal stenosis can lead to injury of the spinal cord in the neck region, which is called cervical myelopathy.
Most people with spinal stenosis are over the age of 50. Though degenerative changes can cause spinal stenosis in younger people, other causes need to be considered, such as trauma, congenital spinal deformity such as scoliosis, or a genetic disease affecting bone and muscle development throughout the body.