This number is estimated to grow by 18 million in the next decade alone, suggesting that the prevalence of spinal stenosis will increase. Spinal stenosis is part of the aging process and it is not possible to predict who will be affected. There is no clear correlation between the symptoms of stenosis and race, occupation, sex, or body type. The degenerative process can be managed, but cannot be prevented by diet, exercise, or lifestyle. It more easily diagnosed because patients are younger and usually lack other complicating medical problems such as diabetes or vascular insufficiency.
Acquired stenosis is a degenerative condition.
Patients generally become symptomatic in their 50s or older. Degenerative changes of the spine can include osteophyte formation, facet hypertrophy, bulging disks, and hypertrophy of the ligamentum flavum. Any of these processes can result in canal or foraminal narrowing. Degenerative spondylolisthesis can further compromise the canal. Osteophytes can form anteriorly or posteriorly.