Spondylosis

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Original Editor - Bruno Serra
Top Contributors - Bruno Serra and Sai Kripa

Introduction[edit | edit source]

Spondylosis is a term used to describe a group of degenerative conditions that affect the intervertebral discs, vertebral bodies, and associated joints of the spine. It is not a clinical diagnosis, but rather a descriptive term utilized to designate spinal problems[1]. Lumbar spondylosis is the most common form of spondylosis, but cervical spondylosis can also occur[2]. Thoracic spondylosis is considered rare. It encompasses numerous associated pathologies including spinal stenosis, degenerative spondylolisthesis, osteoarthritis, aging, trauma, and the daily use of the intervertebral discs, vertebrae, and associated joints[3]. The condition is marked by the breakdown of one or more of the disks that separate the bones of the spine, which provide cushioning between the vertebrae and absorb pressure put on the spine. It is a nearly universal condition in those who reach advanced age, but it can also affect younger people[2].

Epidemiology[edit | edit source]

The prevalence of radiographic spondylosis increases with age, and it is present in only a small percentage of the population in the first few decades of life, but it is common by the age of 65 years[4]. Although some people experience no symptoms, others may feel stiffness and/or pain in the neck, shoulders, between the shoulder blades, or lower back.

Types of Spondylosis in spine[edit | edit source]

Spondylosis can affect any of the three main spinal segments—cervical (the neck), thoracic (the middle/upper back), and lumbar (the lower back)—but it most frequently affects the cervical and lumbar region. Cervical spondylosis is a degenerative condition that affects the ligaments, intervertebral discs, and cervical vertebrae. The deteriorating process frequently does not result in clinical signs. However, it also contributes to incapacitating clinical issues such myelopathy, radiculopathy, and neck pain. Patients with lumbar spondylosis have pain in the axial spine, and the location of these degenerate changes is not surprising as nociceptive pain generators that were identified within facet joints, intervertebral disks, sacroiliac joints, nerve root dura, and myofascial structures. It can usually be diagnosed based on a patient's history of symptoms, a physical examination, and imaging tests[5].

Pain and stiffness are first treated with educating the patient, ice or heat and with over-the-counter medicines. Physiotherapy and daily exercises can be helpful. It is important to work to improve core strength through physical therapy and individually designed exercises, which will help the muscles that surround the spine become stronger and better able to support and stabilize it. This will also improve circulation around the discs, allowing them to absorb vital nutrients required for cellular repair. If these treatments are not helping enough, other treatments may be necessary, such as a shot of medicine in the joint area, or surgical interventions.

See lumbar spondylosis and cervical spondylosis for more specific information.

References[edit | edit source]