A method for strengthening a spinous process comprises positioning a framework over an outer surface of the spinous process, the framework comprising a mesh connected to a frame. Bone filler is distributed over the mesh so that the bone filler contacts the mesh and contacts the spinous process. The bone filler is allowed to cure. A jig is positioned at the spinous process so that a slot through the jig is exposed to a side of the spinous process. A cannula is oriented so that the cannula is receivable in the slot, and insertable into the spinous process through the slot. Bone filler is injected into the spinous process by way of the cannula, with the injection terminating when a desired amount of bone filler has been injected into the spinous process. The cannula is then removed and the bone filler allowed to cure within the vertebra. The above steps can also be accomplished simultaneously or in any order. Further, bone filler injected into the spinous process can also contact the mesh as the bone filler passes at least partially through the spinous process.
