Spondylarthrosis of the lumbar spine: causes, symptoms and treatment of the disease

Spondylarthrosis of the lumbar spine is one of the most common causes of chronic back pain. The disease is associated with the gradual deformation of the cartilaginous and bony structures of the spine. Most often, the ailment is associated with age-related changes in the body and occurs in the elderly. But it is not uncommon for younger people to face similar diseases.

Spondylarthrosis of lumbar spine: underlying causes

As already mentioned, most often the disease is associated with age-related changes in the cartilaginous tissues of the spine. Nevertheless, there are other reasons for the development of deformations. For example, often the disease is the result of a violation of normal circulation and cartilage trophism.

But at a young age, spondylarthrosis can be a complication after a previous trauma to the spine. The risk factors include sedentary lifestyle. Yes, "sedentary" work primarily affects the condition and functioning of the spinal column and leads to weakness of the muscles of the back and chest. On the other hand, excessive physical activity can also be the cause of deformation processes, given the fact that it is the lumbar part that accounts for the greater part of the load.

Spondylarthrosis of the lumbar spine: symptoms and course of the disease

As a rule, the first stages of the disease remain unnoticed by the patient. Symptoms at this stage include small discomfort and low back pain, which are aggravated by sudden movements, intense stress or, conversely, prolonged sitting.

Meanwhile, there is a change in cartilaginous tissues and a slow deformation of the intervertebral discs. Cartilages lose elasticity and gradually become thinner. In the future, there is an inflammatory process of periarticular bone tissues and the most articular bags, which, naturally, leads to deterioration of the patient's condition. The pains become stronger, they are often given to the ribs, the buttocks and thighs. In the morning, the stiffness in the lower back is clearly felt, which disappears after several gymnastic exercises.

As a result of inflammation and deformation, the load is distributed unevenly across the vertebral column, which affects the gait and posture. Often there is a change in the normal structure of the foot.

Certainly, the aggravation of inflammation is accompanied by severe pain, limited and stiffness of movements. Deforming spondylarthrosis of the lumbar spine is a very dangerous and serious disease. The point is that as the disease develops, uncharacteristic bone growths form on the vertebrae, which often pinch the blood vessels and nerve roots, which in turn leads to neuralgia and other complications.

Spondylarthrosis of the lumbar spine and its treatment

Therapy for a similar disease is long and complex. During periods of exacerbation, drug treatment is indicated. Patients are prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs and warming ointments, which relieve soreness. It will also be useful to take chondroprotectors that protect the cartilaginous tissue, preventing its further changes. And muscle spasms use muscle relaxants.

But even after the disappearance of the main symptoms, the spondyloarthrosis of the lumbosacral section requires treatment, which is determined strictly individually. Patients are advised to regularly engage in therapeutic gymnastics, while avoiding heavy loads on the spine. Massage sessions will help restore blood circulation and relieve muscle spasms. Useful are acupuncture, reflexology, phonophoresis and magnetotherapy. Surgical intervention is advisable only if conservative treatment does not give the expected result or the disease is at the last stages of development.