Spondyloarthrosis
Although it is not yet possible to reverse the degenerative process of spondyloarthrosis, we can take actions to positively influence its evolution. The therapeutic possibilities increase when people are diagnosed and treated quickly. Visit my office and get the right treatment!
SCHEDULE APPOINTMENT
What is spondyloarthrosis?
Spondyloarthrosis, also known as osteoarthritis of the spine, is a degenerative joint pathology that causes the wear and tear of the cartilage of the vertebral joints. These elements bear heavy loads throughout our lives, at a certain point, the cartilage loses the ability to regenerate, causing the space between the vertebrae to decrease; which in turn leads to the reduction of the range of motion of the structures of the back, to increased pain and the formation of bone spurs, leaving as a consequence a stiffer spine.
Spondyloarthrosis can appear in any segment of the spine (cervical, dorsal or lumbar), although it is much more common in the cervical and lumbar spine.
Causes of spondyloarthrosis
Spondylolisthesis can be caused by previous problems in the joints of the back, such as:
Vertebral deformities (scoliosis, hyperlordosis, etc.).
Inflammatory processes.
Herniated discs.
Tumors.
Trauma.
Diseases such as: osteoporosis or rheumatism.
Postural overloads.
Overweight.
Sedentariness.
Symptoms of spondyloarthrosis
The symptoms of spondylolisthesis can range from mild to intense depending on the degree of vertebral displacement that the patient has. Symptoms may include:
Rigidity.
Numbness.
Pain that radiates down the legs (mostly in cases of lumbar spondyloarthrosis).
Deformation of the spine.
Muscle tension.
Neurological symptoms derived from nerve compression.
When to see a doctor?
If you suspect that you might be suffering from spondyloarthrosis, some times when you should consider seeing a spine specialist are:
- You experience chronic back pain, especially in the cervical (neck), lumbar (lower back), or thoracic (mid-back) region.
- You have stiffness in your spine that limits your ability to move or perform daily activities.
- You have weakness or loss of function in the muscles of your back or limbs.
- Has difficulty keeping their balance or has trouble coordinating.
- You have a family history of spondyloarthrosis or other rheumatic diseases.
- Symptoms are worsening over time and have come to significantly affect your quality of life.
Diagnostic process - What to do in the event of a symptom?
There are many ways to diagnose spondyloarthrosis, but the first step must be taken by the patient going to the clinic when they experience symptoms. In the office, we will begin with an anamnesis emphasizing the clinical manifestations that the patient presents, followed by a physical examination that allows us to verify the range of motion, reflexes, and muscle strength to identify whether or not there is pressure on the nerves.
Additionally, we can resort to imaging tests (X-rays, CT scans, MRI, etc.); as well as nerve conduction studies or electromyograms to evaluate nerve functioning.
Treatment for Spondyloarthrosis
Because spondyloarthrosis is degenerative, the joint damage you have received cannot be reversed. In this sense, treatment focuses on slowing the progression of the disease in the intervertebral discs, minimising excess loads on the back and achieving pain relief, the options for this are as follows:
Self-care
Stopping activities that have a negative effect on your back, changing your lifestyle to a more active one and avoiding excess body weight.
Therapies
The physical therapist will help you correct improper body postures and exercise the muscles and structures of your back, to increase range of motion, strength, and endurance.
Orthotic Devices
In some cases, a brace can provide pain relief, give more stability to the affected intervertebral discs, and improve the overall function of the degenerated lumbar, thoracic, or cervical spine.
Medication
Doctors often recommend the use of analgesic and anti-inflammatory medications to relieve discomfort.
Surgery
Surgery is taken as a possible option for the treatment of spondyloarthrosis when: therapeutic measures have not worked, there is nerve compromise or damage to the vertebral structures requires surgical repair.
Risk factors for spondyloarthrosis
The risk of spondyloarthrosis is increased by:
Aging.
Carrying out work that causes tension in the cervical, lumbar or dorsal spine (repetitive movements, inappropriate positions, weight overload, etc.).
Certain genetic factors.
Previous injuries or trauma to the spine.
There is no secret formula to prevent spondyloarthrosis, if you want to avoid its appearance we advise you to reduce the risk factors mentioned above. Don’t forget to adopt good postural hygiene and a healthy lifestyle, avoid being overweight and exercise daily.
Types of Spondyloarthrosis
Spondyloarthrosis is classified according to the location and characteristics of the affected joints. In this context, the types of The most common degenerative spondyloarthrosis are:
Cervical spondyloarthrosis
In this type, the affected joints are located in the neck or cervical spine region, so the patient may experience increased pain and stiffness; as well as limitation of movement in the neck.
Lumbar spondyloarthrosis
In this case, the affected joints are located in the lower back or lumbar spine, causing lower back pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving.
Thoracic spondyloarthrosis
In thoracic spondyloarthrosis (the least common), joint involvement occurs in the thoracic spine, and tends to cause pain and stiffness in the mid-back.
SCHEDULE APPOINTMENT
Contact me
I invite you to schedule a medical appointment with me; In this way, I will be able to carefully evaluate your condition and offer you the best treatment or surgery alternatives to eradicate back pain and recover your general well-being.
