How Do You Get Lumbar Spinal Stenosis?

Figure 2a

With this type of stenosis, you may remain symptom free until other conditions further compromise the canal space. Such conditions include formation of extra bony growths (osteophytes), trauma, or intervertebral disc problems. Others may develop stenosis without this predisposition but can instead "acquire" it through trauma, degenerative changes (osteophytes), bulging of the large connective "band" (ligamentum flavum), and most commonly by spondylosis.

As we age our body begins to dehydrate. This process causes our intervertebral discs to dry out thus decreasing the area of cushioning between each vertebra. Normally our discs separate each vertebra, act as shock absorbers during regular activity, and allow our spine to move freely. A decrease in the area of cushioning leads to trauma of our vertebrae and formation of osteophytes. This condition is referred to as Spondylosis. Several of these changes are demonstrated in Figure 2b.

Figure 2b

Figure 2c demonstrates changes from the normal anatomy to those found in lumbar and foraminal; stenosis.

Figure 2c

 

The vertebrae are connected in the back by the bony facets and intervening pars interarticularis. These structures in combination with the intervertebral disc help to interlock each level of the spine. Degeneration, spondylosis, and some congenital conditions can cause these joints to progressively fail. Eventually, a vertebra can slip forward and compromise either the central canal space and/or the opening through which the nerve root exits the spinal canal (foramina). This condition is called spondylolisthesis (Figure 3). It is more prominent in groups of people with who place a lot of stress on their backs including manual laborers, heavy machine operators, and professional athletes.

Figure 3