What is the Ligamentum Flavum?

Start with the Latin-based word ligamentum, which is derived from the Latin ligare (to bind or tie). This is nothing more than a fancy way to say “ligament,” which is defined as a tough band of tissue that connects two bones. In this case, the ligament in question connects the vertebrae of the spine. It also provides stability for proper posture and spinal movement, especially flexion. The word flavum is derived from the Latin flavus, or yellow, which is the color the ligamentum flavum.

Conditions Affecting the Ligamentum Flavum

The ligamenta flava (plural of ligamentum flavum), when healthy, stretch when we bend our back, then snap back into shape when we straighten our spines. As we age, these ligaments begin to ossify or enlarge (hypertrophy) and lose their elasticity, which reduces their ability to snap back into shape. Instead of fitting snugly between the vertebrae, the ligament tissue “bunches up,” or buckles, thereby becoming a threat to adjacent nerve roots or the spinal cord itself.

Ligamentum flavum hypertrophy means an enlargement of the cells, and often occurs in conjunction with ossification, or thickening, of the ligament. This increase in size and decrease in elasticity reduces the space available for adjacent nerve roots and the spinal cord, a condition known as spinal stenosis.

Symptoms caused by ligamentum flavum hypertrophy or buckling usually only occur when the spine is straight. That’s because when the back is bent, the ligament stretches and pressure is removed from the spinal cord or adjacent nerve roots. When the back is straightened, the ligament bunches up again and presses on the nerve or spinal cord. When nerves or the spinal cord are irritated or compressed, symptoms such as pain, tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness can arise.

Treatment

When symptoms occur, conservative treatments such as anti-inflammatory medication, stretching, and targeted exercise are often sufficient for relief. However, if chronic pain persists after weeks or months of conservative treatment, surgery might become an option. If so, contact Laser Spine Institute to learn how a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure performed using advanced, endoscopic technology may help you rediscover your life without back and neck pain.