Degenarative spondylosis

Degenerative spondylosis also called degenerative disk disease or osteoarthritis of the spine, is a condition that affects the spinal column. It creates changes in the disks that separate the vertebra in your back. It can lead to many symptoms and create disability. Understanding what happens with this disease will help you to choose the right form of treatment and manage your symptoms.

Identification



Your spinal column is made up of bones called vertebrae that are separated by disks. The disks provide a space between the vertebrae allowing your spine to move. With degenerative spondylosis this space becomes smaller. With age the disks begin to shrink naturally and the vertebrae may develop bony spurs or growths. See the picture above. These degenerative changes put pressure on the nerves around the spine. It can happen in the neck (cervical), mid back (thorasic) or low back (lumbar) areas.


Causes



Some degenerative changes that happen in the spine are a normal part of aging. Bones change with wear and tear and the disks naturally lose fluid with age. In some people for reasons not well understood, this process is worse then others. Degenerative spondylosis can also occur after an injury, it can be genetic or secondary to another medical condition.


Symptoms



The symptoms you experience will vary based on where in the spine the degnerative spondylosis is, and the severity of the condition. There may be pain and stiffness in the back, or pain that radiates to other areas. There may be numbness, tingling or muscle weakness in the arms and legs. You may lose range of motion in the spine and have trouble turning your head, or with twisting and bending motions. If the damage presses on nerves that send signals to the intestines, you may have problems with digestion and bowel movements. Some people with degenerative spondylosis have no symptoms at all and in others the symptoms are severe.


Diagnosis



Degenerative spondylosis can be diagnosed by providing your physician with a complete medical history of your symptoms and a physical examination. In the later stages of this condition, x-rays can be used to see changes in the spinal column. MRI's are helpful to show damage to surrounding m,muscle or tissues. Your doctor will also do routine blood tests to rule out any other conditions that might be causing your symptoms.


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