The initial stages of the condition may seldom produce any symptoms. In the more advanced stages, patients experience the following signs and symptoms:

• Lower back pain
• Numbness and tingling sensation in the lower back region
• Pain radiates to the lower legs
• Pinch like sensation in the affected area
• Decreased mobility

Laboratory studies are not helpful in detection of lumbar spondylosis. Various imaging studies need to be conducted for differential diagnosis of the condition. An X-ray of the spine is done that reveals narrowing of the space between the discs. MRI studies may elucidate the spondylosis changes in static and mobile rendering [9]. A scan for the determining the bone density is also necessary.

Neurological examinations form an important part of diagnostic procedures. This test is done to assess any damage to the spinal canal. In case of any secondary complications, other tests such as electromyography and nerve conduction velocity are also required.

Treatment regime greatly depends on the extent of damage to the discs and the severity of the symptoms as well as age of the affected individual. In the preliminary stages, when mild symptoms are present, medications are administered to help relieve the pain. In addition, physiotherapy along with medications has proved to be extremely beneficial for patients suffering from lumbar spondylosis. Physiotherapy is known to improve the flexibility and strength of the spine.

In situations of nerve root impingement the patient is put on complete bed rest for at least 2 days. If the symptoms subside then the bed rest is extended for few more days. However, if no relief is experienced then surgical intervention becomes inevitable. Surgery is carried out to correct the nerve impingement and relieve the spinal canal by lumbar spine fusion procedures [10].

Lumbar supports are also given to patients suffering from lumbar spondylosis. For this, supports are designed in a manner that would restrict spine movement, provide stability and correct the deformity.

With prompt initiation of treatment, the prognosis is usually favorable. However, when lumbar spondylosis is allowed to progress, it can cause the vertebrae to gradually stiffen paving way for development of various other conditions.

Complications

Complications of lumbar spondylosis arise when treatment is not initiated in the initial stages. When the disease progresses to more advanced stages, the following complications develop:

• Onset of severe neurological problems
• Poor bladder control
• Unsteady gait
• Reduced flexibility due to severe back pain [6]
• Osteoporosis [7]
• Height reduction [8]

Lumbar spondylosis is a degenerative disease that adversely affects the spine causing narrowing of the space in between the spinal discs. Age is thought to be the greatest risk factor for this condition. As individual ages, the space between the discs narrows down. In addition, there is significant amount of degeneration taking place in the cartilage and disc which in turn contributes to narrowing down of the space.

Such events cause the vertebrae to gradually undergo wear and tear thereby exposing the nerves causing them to inflame and cause pain and discomfort. No relation so far has been noted between smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity, height or weight of the individual [1].

It has been estimated that about 80% of US population develop lumbar spondylosis after the age of 40 years. However, this condition is also known to affect individuals in the age group of 20 to 29 years.

There is a strong correlation between the transforming growth factor beta 1 and lumbar spondylosis among postmenopausal Japanese women [2]. There is a higher incidence of lumbar spondylosis grade KL>2 (Kellgren-Lawrence grading) among men while grade KL>3 is equal in both sexes [3].

Lumbar spondylosis is a resultant reaction of narrowing of the space between the discs. Another theory which explains development of such a kind of condition is formation of new bone growth (osteophytes) in the areas where the anular ligament is under stress [4]. Such an event exerts pressure on the neighboring nerves giving rise to an array of associated complications. There is an associated disc space narrowing with spondylosis in degenerative bone disease of the spine [5]. If lumbar spondylosis is not treated on time it can lead to secondary complications.

Adopting certain lifestyle factors can in some way help in prevention of lumbar spondylosis. These include:

• Individuals are advised to take a careful note about their sitting posture and the lying position. It is also necessary that the bed and the chairs that are used on regular basis should not be too hard or flat.
• It is also necessary to stay healthy by exercising regularly and eating a well-balanced diet.
• Lastly, individuals who have developed lumbar spondylosis are advised against participating in sports or activities such as aerobics, basketball or jogging to avoid aggravating the condition.

Lumbar spondylosis is a condition characterized by development of bony growths in the lower spinal region. It is a degenerative disease of the spine. The condition is also known as spinal osteoarthritis.

Lumbar spondylosis is usually asymptomatic in nature; however some patients have reported that they experience back pain and morning stiffness as the preliminary signs of the disease. Significant number of individuals fall prey to this disease. Such a condition can strike any individual above the age of 20 years. Males and females are at an equal risk of contracting this disease condition.

Definition

Lumbar spondylosis is a degenerative disorder of the spine that narrows down the space between the discs. It is a common condition, affecting about 80% of the individuals of United States. Such a disorder commonly strikes adults as the spine degeneration takes place when the individual ages.

Cause

Age is known to be the major factor contributing to lumbar spondylosis. With advancing age, spine degeneration takes place paving for development of lumbar spondylosis. Physical stature and smoking or alcohol consumption have no relation to such degenerative spine disease.

Symptoms

Development of lower back pain is the most common sign of lumbar spondylosis. In addition, majority of the individuals also complain of stiffness in the lower back when they get up in the morning. All these give rise to decreased mobility and sensation of pinch like feeling in the lower back and legs. In some cases, pain in the lower back region can also radiate to the legs.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of lumbar spondylosis can be made by X-ray examination of the spinal canal. In addition, imaging studies such as MRI and CT scan are also carried out. Bone density tests also form an important part of diagnostic procedure.

Treatment

Mild cases of lumbar spondylosis can be treated with medications to relieve pain and physiotherapy to improve mobility by strengthening the spinal column. In severe cases of nerve impingement, the individuals are advised complete bed rest for 2 days. When the symptoms don’t resolve by bed rest then surgical intervention becomes inevitable.

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