Lumbar spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal, the space where your spinal cord and nerves pass through, in your lower back. It is a common problem that affects around 103 million people worldwide, with a higher incidence in people over the age of 60. The narrowing itself is caused by ageing of the spine. This process involves the thickening of various structures such as bones, ligaments and the meninges, the protective layers that cover the neurological structures in the back. The same ageing process occurs in several other parts of the human body, where it also affects movement and the mobility of the joint. This stiffening of the joint is also often accompanied by pain, which is sometimes, but not always, seen in the lower back in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis. The main challenge with this condition is known as 'neurogenic claudication'. Simply put, when the space in your lower back becomes too narrow, it puts pressure on the nerves. As a result, everyday activities such as walking the dog or shopping can become difficult. Patients may experience pain, tingling, weakness or numbness in their legs and buttocks, frequently necessitating intermitted pauses for pain-relief during walking. Treatment options vary. Some people choose non-invasive approaches such as physiotherapy, which does not involve surgery. Others choose surgical solutions, but it is not a one-size-fits- all solution. Surgery may not be the best choice for people with certain conditions, such as an unstable spine or a history of spinal surgery. On the other hand, people with severe spinal canal narrowing, which is associated with a higher prevalence of major walking problems, often experience significant improvement after surgery. In summary, lumbar spinal stenosis is a common problem that can interfere with daily activities. The choice between surgical and non-surgical treatments depends on the specific circumstances. Surgery tends to be more effective for people with severe narrowing of the spinal canal, while non-surgical treatments are considered for people with other presentations of this condition.