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Spondylosis is a medical term used to describe spinal arthritis. Osteoarthritis
is the form of spondylosis affecting the spine's facet joints. Spondylosis is
a common degenerative condition associated with aging and can affect the cervical
(neck), thoracic (chest area), and lumbar (low back) spine. Biochemical changes
at the cellular level are a natural part of growing older. Since people age
differently, primarily due to heredity and lifestyle, the progression of spondylosis
is individual.
The structural components of the spine affected by spondylosis include the
intervertebral discs, facet joints, and ligaments. As biochemical changes occur,
collagen - a key structural component of the intervertebral disc - is affected
by the loss of water content. Discs may weaken and wear out causing a reduction
in disc height and an increase in the risk for disc bulging and herniation.
The loss of disc height affects the function of the facet joints. As the facet
joints degenerate, the cartilage covering joint surfaces erodes. In an effort
to repair itself, the body forms bone spurs (osteophytes). Joints enlarge (called
hypertrophy) causing osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease. Degenerative
changes in the spine also cause the spine's ligaments to thicken and lose some
strength.
Typical Symptoms
Pain (e.g. low back pain) is a common symptom and sometimes pain radiates from
one area into another. For example, in cervical spondylosis - pain may spread
from the neck into the shoulder or arm. Headaches at the back of head may develop
and some patients report a loss of balance. Bone spurs may cause nerve compression
leading to neurologic dysfunction such as extremity (arm, leg) weakness. Morning
stiffness is another common symptom. Sitting and activities associated with
manual labor (repetitive movements) may aggravate pain.
Untypical/Rare Symptoms
In rare situations, cervical osteophytes may make swallowing difficult. If the
spinal cord is compressed, the patient may experience a loss of bladder or bowel
control. If any of these symptoms develop, contact your physician immediately.
Treatment Goals
Most cases of spondylosis are mild and require little if any treatment. In more
aggressive forms of the disease, especially in the cervical spine, the goal
of treatment is to relieve pain and prevent spinal cord and nerve root injury.
The more common non-surgical treatments are summarized below.
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Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a popular treatment used to help alleviate back and neck
pain. Tiny needles, about the size of a human hair, are inserted into specific
points on the body. Each needle may be twirled, electrically stimulated,
or warmed to enhance the effect of the treatment. It is believed that acupuncture
works (in part) by prompting the body to produce chemicals that help to
reduce pain. |
Bed Rest
Severe cases of spondylosis may require bed rest for no more than 1-3 days.
Long-term bed rest is avoided as it puts patient at risk for deep vein thrombosis
(DVT, blood clots in the legs).
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Brace Use
Temporary bracing (1 week) may help relieve symptoms, but long-term use
is discouraged. Braces worn long-term weaken the spinal muscles and can
increase pain if not constantly worn. Physical therapy is more beneficial
as it strengthens the muscles. |
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