Lumbar spondylosis, also known as back osteoarthritis or spinal osteoarthritis in Singapore, is a degenerative condition that affects the lumbar spine, which is the lower portion of your spine – the lower back. As you get older, the spinal discs and joints in your lumbar region can undergo wear and tear, leading to lumbar spondylosis and lower back pain.
Lumbar spondylosis is primarily caused by ageing and wear and tear on your lumbar spine. The older you get, the more the spinal discs between the vertebrae and facet joints in your lower back undergo degeneration and gradual changes.
These changes may include the formation of bone spurs and the loss of cartilage, leading to reduced flexibility and increased friction within your lumbar joints.
Other factors that may contribute to lumbar spondylosis include:
Symptoms of lumbar spondylosis include:
Yes, lumbar spondylosis can be painful. The condition involves the degeneration of the lumbar spine, which leads to the formation of bone spurs and the loss of cartilage in the joints. These changes can cause compression and irritation of the nerves in the lower back, resulting in pain and discomfort. The severity of the pain does vary between individuals from mild to severe and can worsen over time if left untreated.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, make an appointment today.
In Singapore, age is the leading cause of lumbar spondylosis. Your lumbar spine wears and tears over time, which can lead to degenerative changes, making you more susceptible to this condition. However, other factors that increase an individual’s risk of lumbar spondylosis are:
If you suspect you may have developed lumbar spondylosis, seeking medical evaluation for a proper diagnosis is essential.
Diagnosis of lumbar spondylosis occurs in the following ways:
Neurological evaluation: helps to determine if nerve compression is present and whether it impacts your neurological function.
Once a thorough assessment has been conducted, the lumbar spondylosis diagnosis will be based on the findings, and an appropriate management plan will be created for you. It is essential to get an early diagnosis to initiate timely treatment and prevent further progression of the condition.
In Singapore, there are several treatment options available for lumbar spondylosis.
These treatment options include:
No, lumbar spondylosis and lower back pain are not the same. Lumbar spondylosis is a degenerative condition affecting your lumbar spine, while lower back pain can have various causes. If you experience persistent lower back pain, seeking medical evaluation for an accurate diagnosis is important.
Yes, you can do exercises to help relieve the pain associated with lumbar spondylosis. Consulting a physical therapist can provide you with a personalised exercise plan tailored to your condition.
The recovery from lumbar spondylosis varies for each individual and depends on the severity of the condition and the effectiveness of your treatment plan.
