Spondylosis refers to age-related wear and tear of the spine. It commonly affects the neck (cervical spine) and lower back (lumbar spine). The spinal discs and joints gradually become less flexible, and small extra bone growths called bone spurs may…
Overview
What is spondylosis?
Spondylosis refers to age-related wear and tear of the spine. It commonly affects the neck (cervical spine) and lower back (lumbar spine). The spinal discs and joints gradually become less flexible, and small extra bone growths called bone spurs may develop. These changes can sometimes irritate nearby nerves and cause pain or stiffness.
Why is it important?
Spondylosis can affect movement, sleep and daily activities. In severe cases, pressure on nerves or the spinal cord may cause weakness, balance problems or urine leakage. Early treatment can help improve symptoms and quality of life.
Who is commonly affected?
Spondylosis is more common after 40 years of age. Risk factors include poor posture, obesity, smoking, repeated lifting, long hours of sitting and previous spine injuries.
Causes/Why it Happens
Common causes and risk factors include:
Signs and Symptoms
Common Symptoms
Cervical spondylosis (neck)
- Neck pain or stiffness
- Headaches
- Pain spreading to the shoulders or arms
- Tingling, numbness or weakness in the hands or arms
Lumbar spondylosis (lower back)
- Lower back pain or stiffness
- Pain spreading to the legs
- Tingling or numbness in the legs or feet
- Difficulty standing or walking for long periods
Common causes of symptom flare-ups
Symptoms may worsen with:
- Poor posture
- Prolonged sitting
- Heavy lifting
- Stress
- Lack of exercise
Warning Signs
Seek medical advice if you notice:
- Sudden weakness in the arms or legs
- Difficulty walking or balancing
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Severe pain after a fall or injury
- Numbness around the groin area
Diagnosis and Investigations
Clinical Evaluation
Doctors assess symptoms, posture, movement, muscle strength and reflexes.
Tests
Treatment Options
Medications
Doctors may recommend pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medicines, muscle relaxants or medicines for nerve pain. In some cases, steroid injections may help.
Lifestyle changes
Non-surgical options
When is a procedure or surgery needed?
Surgery may be needed if symptoms do not improve, nerve pressure becomes severe, walking becomes difficult or bladder/bowel control is affected.
Myths and Facts
Only older adults get spondylosis.
Younger people can also develop it due to poor posture or repeated strain.
Complete bed rest is best.
Gentle movement and exercise usually help recovery.
All patients need surgery.
Most people improve without surgery.
Back pain always means severe damage.
Many spine changes are mild and manageable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can exercise help?
Yes. Gentle exercise improves flexibility, strength and posture.
Is spondylosis curable?
Age-related spinal changes cannot be fully reversed, but symptoms can usually be controlled.
When should I seek urgent help?
Seek urgent care if you develop weakness, balance problems, urine leakage or numbness around the groin area.
Can long hours of sitting worsen symptoms?
Yes. Poor posture and prolonged sitting can increase strain on the spine.
Speak to an orthopaedic specialist
Get an expert opinion and a personalised treatment plan at Sterling Hospitals.
