Spondylosis is a degenerative disease of the spine and neck. We all develop some ‘wear and tear’ of the spine with age, but in some people these changes will cause symptoms.
Symptoms are most common in people aged over 50 who; have a history of stress caused by sports, a history of injury to the spine, and poor posture. It can affect any part of the spine, but most often affects the neck.
Cervical spondylosis causes neck pain, lumbar spondylosis causes lower back pain.
The edges of the bones in the spine can become rough, with bony projections called osteophytes. The discs between the bones become thinner and the joints become stiff. Sometimes, the muscles, ligaments and nerves near to the spine can also become painful.
These changes are part of the normal aging process but in some people they can cause pain, altered sensation such as pins and needles or numbness, and weakness in arms or legs.
As the condition deteriorates pain can get worse and movements can become restricted.
Symptoms can range from mild to severe:
- Pain in the neck, shoulder and base of the skull are common and can be worse on movement.
- Pain or altered sensation (like numbness or pins and needles) can spread down the arms and legs if the nerves connecting to spine are irritated.
- Neck stiffness is common, especially on waking in the morning.
- Headaches may occur.
- Rarely; weakness, clumsiness, difficulty walking, or problems with bladder function can occur if there is pressure on the spinal cord due to the degenerative changes in the bones. This is called cervical myelopathy and should be assessed by a doctor without delay.
The condition is diagnosed by examination and history. The examination will usually involve assessing the ability to sit, stand, walk and lift the legs. X-rays, CT and MRI scans can show the changes to the spine described above.
There is currently no cure for spondylosis.
Treatment involves trying to keep moving as normally as possible. Physiotherapy can help maintain and improve range of movement and give advice on some pain relieving techniques like heat therapy and massage. Different painkillers; paracetamol, anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen), codeine, and amitriptyline may help.
Surgery may be recommended if there is pressure on the nerves causing altered sensation or weakness.
