The current study established the baseline data of DD over the entire spine in a large population of elderly individuals. These data provide the foundation for elucidating the causes and mechanisms of DD.

The prevalence of symptomatic LSS was approximately 10% in a cohort resembling the general Japanese population. A 6-m walking time at a maximal pace was a more sensitive index than walking at a usual pace in assessing decreased physical performance associated with symptomatic LSS.

Although radiographic LSS was common in our cohort, which resembled the general Japanese population, symptomatic persons were relatively uncommon.

Aged patients with cervical spinal injury may be more likely to have pulmonary side effects (P = 0.029) after high-dose therapy with MPSS and thus deserve special care.