[Lumbar spinal canal stenosis : A historical perspective]

To know the history of a disease and its treatment is always instructive and helps us to understand the contexts better. It also shows what unbelievable preliminary work was necessary for us be able to treat patients today in the way we are used to. This article attempts to shed light on spinal canal stenosis from a historical perspective and to identify the pioneers who contributed to the understanding of the epidemiology, anatomy, pathogenesis, classification and diagnostic work-up of spinal canal stenosis. In addition, the efforts of scientists and clinicians who have participated in developing the treatment of lumbar spinal canal stenosis in the last seven decades should be recognized.