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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.
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