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Introduction > Causes > Diagnosis > Treatment
Spinal Stenosis
Causes
In spite of the fact that in some cases patients are born with a limited spinal canal, in an overwhelming number of situations the causes are linked to external factors and illnesses with the potential of diminishing the available space inside the spine. In short, the foundations for spinal stenosis can be either of the following:
- The natural wear and tear of the spinal bones as a person grows older could lead to the formation of bone spurs or osteophytes. This is essentially one of the main reasons why the condition tends to manifest after the age of 50.
- Because it is known to put pressure on and irritate nearby nerves, a herniated disk is another likely cause of spinal stenosis. As a side note, the herniated disk condition is usually a consequence of aging as the spinal disks begin losing mass and become more rigid.
- The thickening of the ligaments situated near the spinal cord could cause some portions to infiltrate the spinal canal and narrow it. In addition to reducing the space inside the spinal canal, the broad ligaments can also become stiff and decrease the overall flexibility of the backbone.
- The tapering of the spinal canal could also be a consequence of two serious types of arthritis, namely rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
- As mentioned previously, heredity is also a factor that could lead to the manifestation of the spinal stenosis symptoms quite early and it is usually the main cause of this condition in young people.
- Although rare, the spinal stenosis could be the result of an abnormal tumor growing inside or in the proximity of the spine. Like in the case of heredity, spinal stenosis caused by tumors will start manifesting early and it is more widespread among younger demographics.
- The tightening of the space available in the spinal canal could also be the result of a trauma, such as a car accident or falling.