What is Spondylosis?
Spondylosis is a descriptive term used to describe spine degradation and pain that is more loosely defined than it is clinically diagnosed. It can refer to a condition or medical problem that causes pain and degeneration of the spine, regardless of where the pain is caused or where the degeneration is happening.
What Causes Spondylosis?
There are many possible contributors to spondylosis, including facet joint osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease. All of these involve spinal issues that may cause pain in different parts of the body such as the back, neck, or even leg or arm.
Symptoms of Spondylosis
Spondylosis is often symptomless, but when symptoms do occur, they may include neck or back pain, stiffness, and other forms of spinal stenosis. Spondylosis can lead to cervical spondylotic myelopathy, which typically causes tingling or numbness in the arms, legs, or feet and coordination problems.
Treatment Options for Spondylosis
Non-operative measures are successful in reducing the symptoms of spondylosis, but if the condition has resulted in compression of the spinal cord or spinal nerve roots, surgery may be needed to relieve pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions about Spondylosis
1. Is spondylosis serious?
Though spondylosis can cause pain, many patients experience no symptoms. It is common and generally isn’t serious.
