Spinal stenosis isn’t something most people think about or even something they’ve heard of until they start experiencing its effects and get it diagnosed. It’s a condition where the spaces within the spine get narrower which puts pressure on the nerves that travel through it. It often develops because of natural wear and tear that comes with aging, but other things can also play a part. If you’ve been wondering what causes spinal stenosis, this post breaks down the main triggers.
Bone Overgrowth
One big culprit behind spinal stenosis is bone overgrowth which is often caused by osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis leads to the breakdown of cartilage between bones and to compensate, the body may create bone spurs which are extra bits of bone that can extend into the spinal canal. These growths take up space in the already limited spinal area, which puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, hence the pain.
Another condition, Paget’s disease, can also lead to abnormal bone growth. This disease, more common in adults, disrupts the natural process of bone renewal. Over time, the new bone that is formed becomes enlarged and misshapen, further narrowing the spinal canal.
Herniated Disks
Herniated disks are another leading trigger. Think of the disks between your vertebrae as tiny cushions that absorb shock and keep your spine flexible. Over time, these cushions begin to dry out and lose their elasticity. This natural aging process can cause the outer layer of the disk to crack, allowing the soft material inside to bulge out or herniate.
When this bulging material presses on nearby nerves or the spinal cord, it doesn’t just cause pain, it can also lead to numbness, weakness, or tingling sensations. All of this creates the perfect storm for spinal stenosis to develop.
Thickened Ligaments
Ligaments play an essential role in holding the bones of your spine together. However, over time or following injury, ligaments can become thickened and stiff. This often happens due to wear and tear as the body tries to stabilize the spine.
When they thicken, they may protrude into the spinal canal, further shrinking the space available for the spinal cord and nerves. Even though this process develops slowly, the impact on your mobility and comfort can be significant.
Tumors
Although not as common as other causes, tumors can also lead to spinal stenosis. Abnormal growths, whether malignant or benign, can develop within the spinal cord, in the membranes that cover it, or in the bones of the spine. These growths create additional pressure, compressing the nerves and spinal cord.
It’s worth noting that tumors may arise spontaneously, or they could spread from cancer in another part of the body. Regardless of their source, their presence significantly alters the structure of the spinal canal and triggers stenosis.
Spinal Injuries
Trauma to the spine, such as fractures or dislocations, can immediately cause stenosis. Accidents, falls, or other high-impact events can shift bones out of place or cause them to break. This narrows the spinal space and can also lead to swelling of the surrounding tissue, which puts yet more pressure on the nerves, resulting in more pain.
Even after surgical repairs to address injuries, scar tissue or lingering inflammation can continue to compress the spinal canal. The aftereffects of such trauma often make spinal stenosis a long-term challenge for many individuals.
