Spondylosis | ‘wear & tear’ of the spine
This is a word you might hear bandied about quite a lot in relation to back and neck pain. It is the medical term to describe age-related ‘wear and tear’ of the spine. It is one of the most common causes of spinal pain affecting people in the 50+ age group primarily. In the same way our hips and knees can wear out as we get into later life, the joints in the spine are also vulnerable – particularly the joints at the base of the lower spine (lumbar spondylosis) and the base of the cervical spine (cervical spondylosis). These areas are more commonly affected because this is where a lot of the load being transferred down the spine is exerted and, over time, the ‘wear’ begins to show.
What are the symptoms of spondylosis?
The symptoms include stiffness (especially after strenuous exercise or activity), constant aching pain and sudden twinges and can be troublesome when standing or lying for longer periods of time.
What causes spondylosis?
The term ‘wear & tear’ is often used because the condition is not really seen as a ‘disease’ at all – it is merely the effects of life! It is true some people develop this more than others, but it is unclear why. We do know that the incidence is higher in developed economies where a sedentary lifestyle is more likely and all the scientific evidence, as well as our own clinical observations, supports the need for an active lifestyle. We also know that specific exercise to maintain mobility and strength around the spine is also very beneficial.
What is the treatment?
It’s not true that there is no treatment for spondylosis and it can’t get better. In fact there are thousands of people who have ‘wear and tear’ of the spine without even knowing it! Yes – it mostly hangs around in the background (often for many years) causing no symptoms at all! So when you have a ‘flare up’ of symptoms, you have to remember that even though the wear and tear doesn’t go away, your symptoms will recede. We’ve written about treatment of spondylosis here. Do remember that, however bad the pain is now, you will get better if you follow the advice of your physiotherapist and keep moving!
What if I have spondylosis?
Come and see a physio! Of course we would say that but in fairness, you are reading this on our website. Spondylosis has been studied (a lot) and consistently physiotherapy has been show to be effective in reducing pain and restoring function. There is good evidence for conservative treatments like manual therapy and exercise for spondylosis. Furthermore an experienced physio will be able to initiate a referral for imaging (such as X-rays or MRI) or they prescribe medication to relieve your pain alongside treatment.
If you have spondylosis affecting your lower back or neck – we would love to help. Simply give us a call or book online to see one of our expert physios.
