UNDERSTANDING SPONDYLOSIS

Spondylosis is a condition involving changes in the bones, joints and discs of vertebra. It usually occurs as a part of normal wear and tear associated with aging. The bones looses calcium and become weak, the joints get stiffer and the disc more rigid. One or more of these factors can contribute to occurrence of Neck or Back pain.
These degenerative changes can cause narrowing of canals through which spinal nerves exit. this result in nerve irritation and pain.

RISK FACTORS:

• Abnormal Posture of Neck/ back while sitting or lying down.
• Age with inadequate diet and exercise.
• Lifting heavy weights.
• Trauma.
• Systemic diseases.
• Tumors 

SYMPTOMS:

• Neck or  back pain.
• The pain may radiate to limbs of one or both sides.
• The pain may get worsened on movements, coughing. 
• Weakness of limbs
• Loss of bowel or bladder control. 

DIAGNOSIS:

This disease is diagnosed by a Neurologist with focused clinical examination. Your Neurologist may ask you to do X-ray/CT or MRI of corresponding area to look in to the pathology of the disease. 

TREATMENT:

Use of Analgesics and muscle relaxants may be needed. Use of special neuro-analgesics like gabapentine may be required in cases of radiculopathy. Physiotherapy programs, wearing of Collar/Spinal belt may be required depending on the severity. 

Epidural Steroid injections are useful in cases of severe radiculopathy.

Radiculopathies with severe pain not responding to medications, Weakness, bowel or bladder involvement may require neurosurgical procedures.