Lumbar spondylosis (spine arthritis)

Description Lumbar spondylosis ...

Description

Lumbar spondylosis is the term used to indicate degenerative changes in the joints and discs between the vertebrae of the lower back. This arthritis usually occurs because of the age-related degenerative disease that develops in the joints and discs of the spine. All patients Everyone experiences some wear and tear of the lower back joints as we age. But some have more severe damage causing significant pain and stiffness and sometimes difficulty walking. As the arthritis develops there can be the development of bone spurs, or osteophytes. The rough edges of these bone spurs can irritate the nearby nerves, ligaments and muscles causing different types of pain. Spondylosis of the spine is one of the most common causes of pain in the elderly.

Symptoms

Most common symptoms are low back pain and stiffness which can get worse during and after activity. Walking can be difficult. If nerves are pinched, there may be numbness and / or weakness in the buttocks or legs.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. An X-ray, CT scan and/or MRI may be performed to identify the extent of the degeneration of the spine.

Tests:
CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray

Specialists:
Neurosurgery, Pain Medicine, Spine Surgery, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (physiatry)

Treatment

Therapy depends on the extent of the disease and symptoms. Treatment includes: pain medications, muscle relaxants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), acetaminophen (Tylenol), exercise and physical therapy. Surgery is considered for persistent pain, loss of sensation, or weakness.