Spondylosis is a term that is usually used to describe the wholesale deterioration of the spinal anatomy that comes with age. Other doctors also sometimes more specifically refer to the arthritic deterioration of the vertebral facet joints as spondylosis. Yet, the fact remains that this condition is aptly used to describe a condition within the spinal column that is causing the patient potentially significant pain and discomfort, which may require medical treatment.

The Spine

The anatomical elements that make up the spine are tightly packed in the spinal column to allow for the full range of motion that we require from our backs and necks. Vertebrae give the spine its shape and strength, intervertebral discs cushion and separate the vertebrae, facet joints connect adjacent vertebrae and allow the bones to comfortably articulate against one another, and a variety of soft tissue supports the spinal column. The problem, however, is that over the years, the burden of supporting much of the body’s weight while offering consistent flexibility can take its toll and the spinal anatomy naturally begins to deteriorate. It is for this reason that most of us accept that as we get older we won’t be quite as mobile as we were in our youth and aches and pains are accepted as being mostly unavoidable.

Yet, while some degree of spinal deterioration is unavoidable, a select segment of the population may exhibit a number of frustrating symptoms that go beyond a minor inconvenience in the daily routine.

Symptoms

The symptoms of spondylosis are varied and depend on a number of factors. More often than not, the symptoms that the individual experiences occur when degenerative changes to the spine has resulted in the compression of a nerve root or the spinal cord. For instance, herniated intervertebral disc material or a bulged disc wall in the spinal canal can cause problems. So, too, can the formation of a bone spur as a result of the onset of arthritis in the vertebral facet joints.

Depending on the specific location of the problem, the severity and cause of the condition, and the exact nerve that is constricted, a variety of different symptoms may develop, including:

– Localized pain near the site of the issue

– Radiating pain along the length of the nerve

– Numbness or tingling in the extremities

– Diminished reflexes

– Muscle fatigue

– And more

Conservative Treatment

In order to effectively treat the symptoms of spondylosis, a doctor must diagnose the problem, pinpoint the origin of the symptoms, and take into consideration the patient’s overall health. There are a number of potential treatment options that may be considered, but self diagnosis is never recommended because the wrong approach may prove ineffective or could even make symptoms worse.

With that understood, most patients are able to find sufficient relief with a series of conservative, nonsurgical methods that are designed to alleviate pain and remove strain from the back or neck. While treatments vary from patient to patient, the use of low-impact exercises, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, epidural injections, deep tissue massage, diet, and other similar methods may all be recommended.

Surgery

In the event that several weeks or months of conservative treatment fails to deliver the results that the patient requires, other treatment options, including spondylosis surgery may be considered. Typically, the goal of this course of treatment is to physically remove the source of the patient’s pain, be it a bone spur, calcified ligament, herniated disc material, or other cause. This can often be completed as either an open spine surgery, or, increasingly common, as a minimally invasive procedure in an outpatient setting. It is up to the patient to fully explore his or her options, receive second and third opinions, and find the right approach for the condition.

Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient procedures for the treatment of spondylosis and several other spinal conditions.

Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient procedures for the treatment of degenerative disc disease and other spinal conditions. http://www.laserspineinstitute.com/back_problems/spondylosis/

Author Bio: Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient procedures for the treatment of spondylosis and several other spinal conditions.

Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: spondylosis