DEGENERATIVE STENOSIS OF THE LUMBAR SPINE.

This paper presents an update on degenerative stenosis of the lumbar spine, which is a common pathological condition among patients over the age of 65 years. The anamnesis and physical examination need to be precise, since radiography often only provides indirect signs. Magnetic resonance imaging is necessary if the symptoms persist.

Aging of the elastic and collagen fibers in the human cervical interspinous ligaments.

Background Context: The ligaments consist of collagen bands intermingled with elastic fibers that support hundreds of pounds of stress per square inch. In the spine the basic functional unit comprises vertebrae, intervertebral disc and ligament tissues. The interspinous ligaments with the function of limiting the spine flexion are exposed to a traumatic and degenerative process that promotes pain or instability.