symptom differences between sciatica and spinal stenosis
If the main problem is foraminal stenosis then the symptoms will be very similar to a normal nerve root irritation called a radiculopathy. In younger people this is most usually caused by a bulging or prolapsed spinal disc and is called sciatica, as it is normally the sciatic nerve which is irritated.
SPINAL STENOSIS. Spinal stenosis is a back condition that specifically describes the narrowing of the spinal canal. This condition can occur for multiple reasons, likely due to a combination of other spinal conditions. Spinal stenosis is most common in the lower (lumbar region) part of the spine and upper (cervical region) part of the spine. Lumbar spinal stenosis and cervical spinal stenosis produce similar symptoms, but in different parts of the body.