Most patients need to understand that spinal stenosis is a natural aging process not really rare or unexpected to occur as we all get older. The real issue is when this condition causes symptoms that change your quality of life. This maybe leg or buttock pain or weakness as regular examples. Fortunately, very few patients need surgery! Usually, a minor injection under fluro and therapy will substantially alleviate symptoms. Yes the problem is still there but quality of active life returns quickly. Dr Geisse and myself working as a team have lowered the need for surgery to 5 percents as most patients are functioning well with very little medication. Look at the videos on this site for more details.