Spondylosis

What is lumbar spondylosis?

Lumbar spondylosis is a form of arthritis affecting the lower back, most commonly seen in people over the age of 60. Physiotherapy is an effective way to reduce the symptoms and improve mobility in individuals with this condition.

What can cause lumbar spondylosis?

The lumbar spine consists of five vertebrae, separated by discs that act as shock absorbers and provide flexibility. With age, the joints in the lumbar spine undergo wear and tear, leading to the formation of extra bony growths called osteophytes around the vertebrae and discs as a repair mechanism. These osteophytes can cause stiffness in the spine and may sometimes impinge on surrounding nerves, leading to additional complications.

What are the symptoms of lumbar spondylosis?

Stiffness and low back pain are the most common symptoms of lumbar spondylosis. You may feel stiffer in the mornings, and it may take some time for the stiffness to reduce as you begin moving. In more serious cases, the bony changes around the vertebrae can irritate nearby nerves, leading to neurological symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the lower back, legs, or feet.

  • Numbness or tingling in the buttocks, legs, or feet
  • Weakness in the muscles of the lower back, legs, or feet
  • Pain radiating from the lower back into the buttocks or legs
  • Difficulty with balance or walking in severe cases

What should I do if I have lumbar spondylosis?

It is important to visit your GP if you suspect you have symptoms of lumbar spondylosis. Your GP can provide an accurate diagnosis and may recommend imaging tests such as an X-ray or MRI if your symptoms are severe. Once a professional diagnosis is confirmed, it is essential to begin a physiotherapy programme promptly to manage your condition effectively and optimise your recovery.

Physiotherapy for lumbar spondylosis.

Your physiotherapy programme will include range of movement and strengthening exercises for the lumbar spine to help improve mobility. Pain management techniques such as TENS and wax therapy may be used, and massage can help relax the muscles surrounding the spine. Pacing advice is also important, as it enables you to manage your condition effectively without letting it dominate your daily life.

  • Range of movement exercises for the lumbar spine to improve mobility
  • Strengthening exercises for supporting muscles
  • Pain management techniques such as TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)
  • Wax therapy for pain relief
  • Massage to relax surrounding muscles
  • Pacing advice to manage activity levels and prevent overexertion

What shouldn’t I do if I have lumbar spondylosis?

You should not ignore symptoms of lumbar spondylosis, no matter how mild they may seem. If left untreated, the condition can worsen over time and may become increasingly disabling. Avoid trying to manage the symptoms on your own, as improper self-treatment can potentially exacerbate the condition.

Can lumbar spondylosis have any long-term effects?

Lumbar spondylosis is generally mild and can be managed conservatively without surgery. However, if symptoms are ignored and worsen over time, surgical intervention may become necessary, which would significantly extend the recovery period.

To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.

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