All About Spondylosis

---

Share

Spondylosis is a condition that affects about 4-6% of the population. Sport related stress, makes competitive athletes more susceptible to the ailment as compared to other people. Here, we take a closer look at this common disease.

Spondylosis can be described as an overuse injury caused by repeated stress to small and obscure areas of the facet joint, resulting in fractures. Sportsperson are particularly vulnerable to this condition, given the amount of stress associated with most competitive sports. People, who participate in dance, gymnastics, soccer and other forms of football, are at high risk of developing this ailment. The spine is under a lot of stress in these sports and repeated flexing- either forward or backwards- coupled with turning, can lead to immense mechanical stress on the body.

Spondylosis is also caused by a careless lifestyle without ergonomic care. Incorrect posture while working in front of the computer, driving or travelling, can all lead to this disease.  Obesity is also known to trigger Spondylosis by increasing the curve of the lower back. Advancing age is said to be a contributing factor for Spondylosis as well.

Spondylosis symptoms include lower back pain that's aggravated by activity or hyperextension of the spine. People suffering from the ailment, also notice a tightening of the hamstring muscles. At times, the condition may be asymptomatic and therefore, difficult to diagnose.

Most physicians use diagnostic tools such as X-rays, bone and CT scans to detect Spondylosis. Multiple views must be taken by these imaging tests to provide an accurate evaluation of the condition. In recent times, many influential doctors and researchers are also recommending the use of MRIs to diagnose the ailment. The MRI test is particularly recommended as a part of follow-up examinations.

The best approach to treating the disease is to get an early and accurate diagnosis. Other vital ways to deal with the problem include wearing a brace and receiving appropriate physical therapy to strengthen the muscles. Special workouts may also be recommended to increase flexibility of the pelvic floor muscles and reduce lordosis. Sports activities must be avoided completely during this period of recovery.

In extreme cases, the bones may not heal even after extensive treatment. In such situations, electrical stimulation or even surgical intervention may be recommended for treatment of Spondylosis. Most surgical procedures for the condition have been developed to alleviate the signs and symptoms of the same. Osteophytes and certain intervertebral disk portions are usually removed to relieve pressure on adjacent nerve roots and spinal cord.

So, if you believe you're suffering from Spondylosis, do get in touch with your physician at the earliest possible. An early detection of the problem, will guarantee an easy recovery from the same.