A decrease in the overall size of the intervertebral foramen (the bony window through which the spinal nerves pass) caused by enlargement of the facet or a degenerative disc. The spinal nerve passing through the foramen can become irritated or compressed. Severe foraminal stenosis can cause radiculopathy. Surgical management can include enlarging the foremen by removing bone (foraminotomy), and/or fusion to reduce continued facet joint degeneration.