Lumbar spondylosis is a degenerative disc disease or osteoarthritis of the spine caused by wear and tear on the components of the spine, including the vertebrae, discs, and joints. It is a common condition, affecting up to 80% of adults over the age of 60.
Lumbar spondylosis can cause lower back pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It can also lead to other spinal problems, such as spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, or osteoarthritis. |
Symptoms of lumbar spondylosis:
The symptoms of lumbar spondylosis may be mild or severe, and it may be constant or intermittent including:
⦁ Lower back pain that radiates to the buttocks, thighs, or legs. ⦁ Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs or feet. ⦁ Muscle spasms or tightness in the lower back. ⦁ Reduced range of motion or flexibility in the lower back. ⦁ Difficulty standing, sitting, walking, or bending. ⦁ Stiffness in the lower back. ⦁ Pain, numbness, or tingling in the legs. ⦁ Weakness in the legs. |
Causes of lumbar spondylosis:
⦁ Breakdown of the intervertebral discs: The intervertebral discs are cushions of cartilage that sit between the vertebrae. They act as shock absorbers and help to keep the spine stable. As we age, the discs can become dehydrated and lose their elasticity. This can lead to narrowing of the disc spaces and increased pressure on the nerves and blood vessels that run through the spine.
⦁ Overuse: Repeated movements or activities that put stress on the lower back can damage the vertebrae and discs over time. This can happen due to physical work, sports, injuries, or poor posture. ⦁ Formation of osteophytes: Osteophytes are bony spurs that can form on the edges of the vertebrae. They can develop as the body tries to repair damage to the spine. However, osteophytes can also put pressure on the nerves and blood vessels in the spine. |
⦁ Growth spurts: Some children and adolescents may develop lumbar spondylosis during periods of rapid growth, when their bones and muscles are changing quickly.
⦁ Thickening of the ligamentum flavum: The ligamentum flavum is a ligament that runs along the back of the spine. It helps to keep the spine stable. However, the ligamentum flavum can thicken with age, which can narrow the spinal canal and put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
⦁ Genetics: Some people may inherit a tendency to develop lumbar spondylosis from their parents or relatives. ⦁ Other factors: Smoking, obesity, diabetes, and inflammation can also contribute to the development of lumbar spondylosis by affecting the blood supply and health of the spinal tissues. |
Prevention measures of lumbar spondylosis:
If you have lumbar spondylosis, there are things you can do to manage the symptoms and prevent your condition from worsening.
Below are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of developing lumbar spondylosis or slow its progression:
⦁ Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight puts additional stress on the spine, which can accelerate the degenerative process. ⦁ Use a supportive mattress and pillow: A good mattress and pillow can help to keep your spine in alignment while you sleep. |
⦁ Exercise regularly: Exercise helps to strengthen the muscles that support the spine and improve flexibility. It is important to choose exercises that are low-impact and do not put too much stress on the spine, such as walking, swimming, and yoga.
⦁ Avoid repetitive lifting and bending: When you lift or bend, use your legs and back together to avoid putting too much stress on your back. If you have to lift something heavy, bend at the knees and keep your back straight.
⦁ Practice good posture: Good posture helps to keep your spine in alignment and reduces stress on the spine. Stand up straight with your shoulders back and your head held high. When sitting, make sure that your feet are flat on the floor and your back is supported. |
⦁ Eat a healthy diet: A healthy diet can help to reduce inflammation and keep your bones and muscles strong. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and red meat.
⦁ Wear supportive shoes: Good shoes can help to absorb shock and reduce stress on your spine.
⦁ Take breaks when sitting or standing for long periods of time. Get up and move around every 20-30 minutes to help keep your spine loose and flexible. ⦁ Avoid smoking: Smoking can damage the discs in your spine and make you more likely to develop lumbar spondylosis. |
Lumbar spondylosis treatment methods:
The treatment of lumbar spondylosis depends on the symptoms and goals of the patient. The main aims of treatment are to relieve pain, improve function, and prevent further damage.
The treatment options may include:
⦁ Medications: Painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, or nerve blockers may be prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation. ⦁ Physical therapy: Exercises, stretches, massage, heat therapy, or electrical stimulation may be recommended to improve strength, flexibility, posture, and blood flow in the lower back. |
⦁ Lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking, losing weight, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding activities that worsen the symptoms may help to slow down the progression of lumbar spondylosis and improve overall health.
⦁ Alternative therapies: Acupuncture, chiropractic care, yoga, meditation, or herbal remedies may be tried to relieve pain and stress associated with lumbar spondylosis.
⦁ Surgery: In some cases, when conservative treatments fail to provide adequate relief or when there is severe nerve compression or spinal instability, surgery may be considered. |
The type of surgery depends on the specific problem and may involve removing part of the disc or bone (discectomy or laminectomy), fusing two or more vertebrae together (spinal fusion), or inserting an artificial disc or spacer (disc replacement or interspinous device).
