Epidemiology

The precise incidence of spinal stenosis is unknown. Acquired degenerative spinal stenosis typically becomes symptomatic in patients aged 50-69 years. Around 80% of women and 95% of men over 65 years have radiographic evidence of degenerative changes, and a large series of myelograms in adults showed stenosis in 1.7% to 6%.[2][3][4] Men and women are equally affected, but spondylolisthesis is more common in women. Lumbar stenosis may be increased in smokers, and patients with lumbar stenosis may have coexistent cervical stenosis.[5][6] There is no association with ethnicity.

Rising global life expectancy is resulting in increasing numbers of patients living to an age at which they may experience symptomatic lumbar stenosis. In addition, older patients are increasingly concerned about maintaining an active lifestyle, spurring more concern about medical ailments that affect quality of life.

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