Spondylosis

What is spondylosis?

Spondylosis is the medical term for degenerative spinal arthritis. Common spondylosis symptoms include stiffness and mild back pain that worsens after periods of not moving or with specific movements.

More severe spondylosis symptoms include:

• Muscle spasms and pain
• Headaches
• Grinding or popping feelings in the spine
• Weakness in your hands or legs
• Poor coordination
• Poor balance
• Difficulty walking
• Incontinence (loss of bladder or bowel control)

Symptoms are often caused by radiculopathy — spinal nerve compression. The changes in your spine alter its structure. Nerves exiting the vertebrae from your spinal cord may come under pressure, causing pain and other nerve-related problems.

Many people with spondylosis don’t experience any symptoms, or symptoms develop and then go away. Sometimes, sudden movements can cause symptoms.

What causes spondylosis?

Spondylosis symptoms often result from aging and are most common in patients over 60. Aging causes the discs, which act as shock absorbers between the spinal bones (vertebrae), to deteriorate. The space between the bones narrows, putting pressure on the nerve roots. You’re more likely to develop spondylosis if arthritis runs in your family.

Spondylosis can lead to spondylolisthesis. In this condition, one or more vertebrae slip forward over the bone below, causing similar and sometimes more severe symptoms.

A physical exam by one of Coastal Spine’s doctors is the first step toward relief from spondylosis symptoms. They might use X-rays, an MRI, or a CT scan to confirm your diagnosis and assess the damage.

How is spondylosis treated?

Coastal Spine offers several spondylosis treatments. Anti-inflammatory medication relieves tissue swelling and pain. Bracing and physical therapy can help restore function and reduce pain. They also encourage healing.

Steroid injections into the spine use potent medicines to reduce inflammation and pain at their source.

Most people find these treatments effective, but if your pain and disability continue, you might benefit from surgery.

What surgery might I need for spondylosis?

Coastal Spine’s highly skilled surgeons perform outpatient surgery using minimally invasive techniques. One possible surgery is laminectomy and fusion.

A laminectomy removes sections of bone from the vertebrae, freeing up space for the spinal nerves. Afterward, your surgeon fuses the bones on either side to reinforce and stabilize your spine.

Procedures are done in Coastal Spine’s dedicated surgical center or a local hospital.

Call Coastal Spine today or book an appointment online to receive expert spondylosis treatment.