What condition is characterized by the narrowing of the spinal canal?

The condition characterized by the narrowing of the spinal canal is spinal stenosis. This narrowing can occur in different regions of the spine and can lead to compression of the spinal cord and nerves, resulting in symptoms such as pain, numbness, and weakness. Spinal stenosis often develops as a result of age-related changes in the spine, such as degenerative disc disease, thickening of ligaments, or the formation of bone spurs, which can all contribute to reducing the space within the spinal canal.

In contrast, disc herniation involves the displacement of the intervertebral disc and can lead to nerve compression, but it does not specifically denote a narrowing of the spinal canal itself. Arthritis can contribute to spinal stenosis by causing inflammation and degeneration of the joints in the spine, yet it is not solely defined by canal narrowing. Osteoporosis, which is characterized by decreased bone density, affects the strength of the bones but does not specifically narrow the spinal canal. Thus, spinal stenosis is the condition directly related to the narrowing of the spinal canal and is correctly identified in this case.