Pain Worse with Arching Back

The Connection to Spinal Stenosis

Many people with extension-sensitive back pain have spinal stenosis — a condition where the spinal canal (the passageway that houses the nerves) becomes narrowed, compressing the nerves.

Characteristic symptoms:

• Numbness or pain in the legs that comes on during walking
• Relief after a short rest, allowing you to walk again — this is called "intermittent claudication" (pain in the legs during walking that eases with rest)
• No trouble riding a bicycle (because you're leaning forward)
• Walking more comfortably while pushing a shopping cart

If you recognize these symptoms, the flexion exercises on this page may be particularly helpful.

For a detailed explanation of spinal stenosis, see What Is Spinal Stenosis?