Spinal Stenosis Causes

The causes of spinal stenosis vary depending on the patient and the manner in which they acquired the condition. Spinal stenosis is characterized by a narrowing of the spinal canal either in the lumbar (lower back) or cervical (neck) regions of the spine. This narrowing causes compression of the spinal cord or spinal nerve roots and drives the negative symptoms associated with the condition. Stenosis of the spine often leads to chronic neck and back pain causing severe consequences for patients suffering from the condition.

Spinal Stenosis: Acquired versus Inherited

Patients who suffer from spinal stenosis can be broadly separated into those who inherited the condition and those who have acquired it over time. Patients who have inherited spinal stenosis are often born with a spinal canal narrower than the average person and often experience the negative effects of the condition earlier in life. Most patients seeking treatment for spinal stenosis suffer from the acquired version of the condition. The narrowing of the spinal canal is a natural part of the aging process and is a common medical issue for patients as they approach the age of 50.

What Causes Spinal Stenosis?

Spinal Stenosis is most often caused by the onset of ostheoarthritis later in life. The condition causes degeneration in the cartilage that provides a cushion for spinal joints. As this cartilage continues to degenerate, the exposed bones exhibit friction as the patient moves about in their normal daily activities. As this bone on bone friction continues, the symptoms of spinal stenosis become more pronounced and the condition worsens.

In addition to the aging process, spinal stenosis is often induced by trauma to the back or neck that causes damage to the anatomy of the spine. Compression of the spinal nerve roots or spinal cord can result from herniated discs, bones spurs, bulging discs, or trauma to the spinal cord.

The Bonati Spine Institute has a 25 year history of developing world class surgical techniques to treat chronic back and neck pain caused by spinal stenosis. If you are considering surgical solution to your pain caused by spinal stenosis, visit our spinal stenosis surgery section to review your options. Or you can contact us for a consultation with a medical professional and a free MRI review.

The Bonati Spine Institute advocates spinal stenosis patients to be well informed. We encourage you to contact us to request a no-obligation MRI review or discussion with one of our medical professionals. Find out why The Bonati Procedures are considered to be among the world's best solutions for laser spine surgery.