Medical

Back Pain

Spondylosis (Spinal Osteoarthritis)

(excerpted from spineuniverse.com)

What Is Spondylosis?

Spondylosis (spinal osteoarthritis) is a degenerative disorder that may cause loss of normal spinal structure and function. Although aging is the primary cause, the location and rate of degeneration is individual. The degenerative process of spondylosis may impact the cervical, thoracic, and/or lumbar regions of the spine affecting the intervertebral discs and facet joints.

Lumbar Spine

Spondylosis often affects the lumbar spine in people over the age of 40. Pain and morning stiffness are common complaints. Usually multiple levels are involved (e.g. more than one vertebrae).

The lumbar spine carries most of the body's weight. Therefore, when degenerative forces compromise its structural integrity, symptoms including pain may accompany activity. Movement stimulates pain fibers in the anulus fibrosus and facet joints. Sitting for prolonged periods of time may cause pain and other symptoms due to pressure on the lumbar vertebrae. Repetitive movements such as lifting and bending (e.g. manual labour) may increase pain.

Treatment

Conservative treatment is successful 75% of the time. Some patients may think that because their condition is labeled degenerative they are doomed to end up in a wheel chair some day. This is seldom the case. Many patients find their pain and other symptoms can be effectively treated without surgery.

During the acute phase, anti-inflammatory agents, analgesics, and muscle relaxants may be prescribed for a short period of time. The affected area may be immobilized and/or braced. Soft cervical collars may be used to restrict movement and alleviate pain. Lumbosacral orthotics may decrease the lumbar load by stabilizing the lumbar spine. In physical therapy, heat, electrical stimulation, and other modalities may be incorporated into the treatment plan to control muscle spasm and pain.

Physical Therapy (PT) teaches the patient how to strengthen their paravertebral and abdominal muscles to lend support to the spine. Isometric exercises can be helpful when movement is painful or difficult. Exercise in general helps to build strength, flexibility, and increase range of motion.

Lifestyle modification may be necessary. This may include an occupational change (e.g. from manual labour), losing weight, and quitting smoking.

Surgery

Seldom is surgery used to treat spondylosis or spinal osteoarthritis. Conservative forms of treatment are tried first.

Recovery

Always follow the instructions provided by the physician and/or physical therapist. This includes:

• Take medication as directed. Report side effects to your physician immediately.
• Follow the home exercise program provided by the physical therapist.
• Avoid heavy lifting and activities that aggravate pain or other symptoms.
• Try to keep your weight close to ideal.
• Stop smoking.

For more information, see www.spineuniverse.com