ANSWERS: 1
  • Lumbar spinal stenosis involves a narrowing of the spinal canal in the lumbar (lower part of the back). This can exert pressure on the nerves and lead to pain and other complications. Spinal stenosis has several causes.

    Primary vs. Acquired Stenosis

    While rare, some people are born with spinal stenosis. In most cases, however, it develops over time as the aging process triggers changes in the spine.

    Osteoarthritis

    Osteoarthritis---the breakdown of the bones and cartilage---accounts for a majority of cases. As the cartilage wears down, bones rub against one another, encouraging the formation of bone spurs, whose presences narrows the spinal canal.

    Herniated Disk

    When disks rupture (herniated), they can narrow the spinal canal and press on the nerves. Age-related degeneration accounts for these changes.

    Ligaments

    Ligaments in the back stiffen and thicken as time goes by. This can reduce the length of the spine which leads to narrowing.

    Tumors and Injuries

    Two other possible causes include tumors and injuries. Tumors can form on various areas of the spine leading to narrowing and nerve compression. Various types of injuries can also damage the spine.

    Medical Conditions

    Paget bone disease causes abnormal bone growth, which can affect the spinal canal. Achondroplasia (dwarfism) results in lower than average height and a narrow spinal canal.

    Source:

    Mayo Clinic: Spinal Stenosis:

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