The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), a part of the Department of Health and Human Services' National Institutes of Health, is supporting several research projects on spinal stenosis. For example, in a 5-year clinical trial involving 11 sites throughout the country, researchers are attempting to determine whether surgical or nonsurgical treatment is more effective at treating spinal stenosis and other back problems. Another project will try to find out if specific MRI findings will help physicians determine if they can identify groups who will fare better with surgical or nonsurgical treatments. For example, follow up of patients in SPORT will provide important insights into the long-term outcomes and cost-effectiveness of treatment options for spinal stenosis.