Spondylosis (Disc Degeneration)
Diagnosis:
Spondylosis, which can also be referred to as spinal osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease, is a name for chronic degeneration of the discs and/or joints separating the vertebrae of the spine. It can occur anywhere in the spine, including the neck. When occurring in the lower back, this is known as lumbar spondylosis. Spondylosis is associated with the presence of osteophytes, or bone spurs, which are abnormal growths on the vertebrae, but is often asymptomatic in its early stages. Many individuals experience the progression of spondylosis as they age, with the National Health Service estimating that most people over the age of 70 will have some degree of symptomatic degeneration.
While there is no treatment to reverse the degenerative process of spondylosis, Genesis Orthopedics & Sports Medicine does provide treatment options for the pain it can cause.
Treatment Options:
NSAIDs
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the first advised medication for the management of mild symptoms of spondylosis. Over-the-counter pain medication is often strong enough to minimize or eliminate the initial symptoms of spondylosis.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is used by Genesis Orthopedics & Sports Medicine as a treatment for most types of back pain, not excluding spondylosis. As the joints and cartilage separating the spinal vertebrae gradually deteriorate, physical therapy to rehabilitate the spine and strengthen the surrounding muscles is usually effective.