Patent ID: 7476238

Claim:
A spinal stabilization system, comprising: (a) first and second pedicle screws; (b) a stabilization device mounted with respect to said first and second pedicle screws; said stabilization device including (i) a first end and a second end which define an intermediate region; and (ii) an inner spring and an outer spring positioned concentrically around the inner spring; wherein the inner and outer springs are positioned at least in part within said intermediate region; wherein said stabilization device delivers a first resistive force that is based on spring resistance from both of said inner and outer springs in response to an initial range of motion associated with relative movement between said first and second pedicle screws; and wherein said stabilization device delivers a second, lesser resistive force that is based on spring resistance from only said outer spring in response to a further range of motion associated with additional relative movement between said first and second pedicle screws beyond said initial range of motion.