Understanding Spondylosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

It was a lively Monday morning when I met Eleanor, a 58-year-old retired librarian, in my clinic. Eleanor walked in, rotating her neck slowly and wincing slightly. “I’ve been waking up with this awful stiffness in my neck, and it doesn’t go away,” she confessed. “It gets worse when I spend too long reading or gardening. Even walking makes my back feel like it’s made of stone.”

Listening to her concerns, I nodded empathetically. “Eleanor, it sounds like you might be experiencing spondylosis, which is a common spinal condition as we age,” I said, offering her a reassuring smile. “Let’s talk through it and see how we can manage it together.”

What is Spondylosis?

As I explained to Eleanor, “Spondylosis refers to the degeneration or wear-and-tear changes in the spine, causing stiffness and discomfort. It’s quite similar to osteoarthritis, but it specifically affects the spine.

I showed her a model of the spine and highlighted the areas most commonly affected by spondylosis:

• Cervical Spondylosis: Affects the neck region.
• Lumbar Spondylosis: Affects the lower back.
• Thoracic Spondylosis: Rare but affects the middle back.

A study published in The Journal of Orthopaedic Science in 2020 found that nearly 85% of people over the age of 60 show some degree of spondylosis on imaging, even if they don’t experience symptoms. “So, Eleanor, you’re definitely not alone in this,” I reassured her.

Causes of Spondylosis

“What causes this wear and tear?” Eleanor asked, clearly curious.

I explained that spondylosis is primarily caused by aging. “As we grow older, the discs between our vertebrae lose moisture and shrink, and the bones and ligaments become less flexible,” I said.

“Think of your spine like a car’s suspension system,” I added. “Over time, the shocks wear out, and the joints become less effective at absorbing stress.”

Some additional causes include:

• Age-related Wear and Tear: Natural degeneration of discs and joints.
• Repetitive Strain: Jobs or activities that involve repetitive motions, like gardening or typing.
• Injury or Trauma: Previous injuries can accelerate spinal degeneration.
• Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis can increase the risk.

A research article in The Spine Journal highlighted that individuals engaging in heavy physical work or repetitive bending and twisting are more prone to developing spondylosis earlier in life.

Symptoms of Spondylosis

Eleanor shared her experience of waking up with a stiff neck and back pain. I nodded, recognizing the typical symptoms.

“Pain and stiffness are the most common signs,” I explained. “But other symptoms can include limited range of motion, numbness or tingling in the limbs, and even muscle weakness if nerve roots are compressed.”

I added that symptoms often worsen after long periods of inactivity, such as sleeping or sitting for extended periods.

Risks of Untreated Spondylosis

Eleanor expressed concern about the long-term effects of spondylosis. I explained that while spondylosis is not life-threatening, untreated cases can lead to complications, including:

• Chronic Pain: Persistent pain that affects daily activities.
• Nerve Compression: Leading to numbness, tingling, or weakness.
• Spinal Stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal that can cause significant nerve-related symptoms.

“There’s a study in Arthritis Research & Therapy that emphasizes the importance of early intervention to prevent severe nerve damage and maintain mobility,” I added.

Diagnosis of Spondylosis

I conducted a physical examination and reviewed Eleanor’s medical history. Checking her muscle strength, reflexes, and range of motion, I explained the importance of imaging tests.

“We may need X-rays or MRIs to see the extent of the degeneration,” I told her. In Eleanor’s case, a simple X-ray revealed mild cervical spondylosis.

Treatment Options for Spondylosis

“Don’t worry, Eleanor,” I reassured her. “Spondylosis is manageable with a combination of lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and medication.”

1. Lifestyle Modifications

“The first step is to make some lifestyle changes,” I advised. “Avoid activities that worsen your symptoms, and maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your spine.”

I suggested Eleanor:

• Use an ergonomic chair while reading.
• Take regular breaks from gardening.
• Maintain good posture.

2. Physical Therapy

“Physical therapy is essential to strengthen the muscles around the spine,” I continued. A physiotherapist can guide you through exercises to improve flexibility and reduce pain.”

Eleanor agreed to see a physiotherapist who could teach her stretching and strengthening exercises.

3. Medication

For pain relief, I recommended:

• NSAIDs: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce inflammation.
• Muscle Relaxants: To relieve muscle spasms.
• Topical Pain Relievers: Creams and gels applied to the affected area.

A study in Pain Medicine found that NSAIDs are effective in managing chronic spinal pain, especially when combined with physical therapy.

4. Heat and Cold Therapy

“Alternating between heat and cold packs can also help relieve pain and reduce inflammation,” I suggested.

5. Injections

In more severe cases, I mentioned the possibility of corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation around the nerve roots.

Preventing Spondylosis

Before Eleanor left, I shared some prevention tips:

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Extra weight puts more strain on the spine.
• Stay Active: Regular exercise helps maintain flexibility and strength.
• Practice Good Posture: Especially when sitting or standing for long periods.
• Avoid Heavy Lifting: If unavoidable, lift with your legs, not your back.

FAQs About Spondylosis