Spondylosis

If you suffer from spondylosis, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Is Spondylosis?

Spondylosis, also known as spinal osteoarthritis, is a degenerative condition that affects the spine. It is a common condition that occurs due to age-related changes in the spine’s structures, such as the discs, vertebrae, and facet joints.

The main characteristic of spondylosis is the breakdown and deterioration of the spinal discs, which are the cushions between the vertebrae. As these discs lose their elasticity and water content over time, they become thinner and less capable of absorbing shock and providing flexibility to the spine. This disc degeneration can lead to various symptoms and complications.

In addition to disc degeneration, spondylosis can involve the development of bone spurs, also known as osteophytes. These bony outgrowths can form along the edges of the vertebrae and the facet joints, which are the small joints that connect the vertebrae. The presence of bone spurs can cause the narrowing of the spinal canal or neural foramina, leading to compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots. This compression can result in pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected areas.

Symptoms Of Spondylosis

Spondylosis can occur in different regions of the spine, including the cervical spine (neck), thoracic spine (mid-back), and lumbar spine (lower back). The symptoms and severity of spondylosis can vary depending on the location and extent of the degenerative changes. Common symptoms may include neck or back pain, stiffness, limited range of motion, muscle spasms, and radiating pain or numbness in the arms or legs.

Diagnosing spondylosis typically involves a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans. These tests can help visualize the degenerative changes, determine the extent of spinal involvement, and rule out other potential causes of symptoms.

Treatments For Spondylosis

The treatment for spondylosis aims to manage symptoms, improve function, and prevent further degeneration. Non-surgical approaches are usually recommended initially and may include physical therapy, pain management techniques, exercise programs, posture correction, and lifestyle modifications. Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or analgesics may be prescribed to alleviate pain and inflammation.

In cases where conservative measures are insufficient or severe symptoms persist, surgical intervention may be considered. Surgical options for spondylosis include decompression procedures to relieve pressure on nerves or spinal fusion to stabilize the affected segments of the spine.

It’s important to note that spondylosis is a chronic condition that cannot be completely reversed, but its symptoms can be managed effectively. Regular medical check-ups and a multidisciplinary approach involving healthcare professionals such as orthopedic specialists, physical therapists, and pain management experts can help individuals with spondylosis maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle.

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.