Answer :
Final answer:
Degenerative diseases of the spine are influenced by genetic predispositions, metabolic issues like calcium dysregulation, and environmental factors such as poor diet and lack of exercise that can lead to conditions like osteoporosis and kyphosis.
Explanation:
The factors that influence degenerative diseases of the spine include a range of genetic, metabolic, and environmental conditions. A well-known example is osteoporosis, a condition where bone density and strength are decreased, leading to skeletal weakness and the potential for fractures. The thoracic vertebrae may become weakened and lead to kyphosis, an excessive dorsal curvature of the spine often seen in the elderly due to cumulative spinal column injuries and diseases like osteoporosis.
Additionally, genetic factors can play a role, such as an inherited mutation in the COL9A2 gene that can predispose individuals to herniated discs. Metabolic factors like calcium dysregulation are implicated in neurodegenerative disorders like ALS, which involves the degeneration of motor neurons in the spinal cord. Thus, spinal health is influenced by a complex interplay of skeletal, circulatory, and nervous system factors.
