Spondylosis of the lumbar spine is a fairly common problem, especially in patients of retirement age. It should be immediately noted that this is a chronic disease that is accompanied by slowly progressive deformation of the lumbar vertebrae.
Why does lumbar spondylosis occur?
Spondylosis is a disease that is accompanied by damage to the bone and cartilage tissue of the vertebra with their further deformation. And quite often, such changes are associated with a person’s age and a violation of normal tissue trophism as a result of aging.
In addition, metabolic diseases can be attributed to the causes, in which the spinal tissue simply does not receive the necessary amount of “building” substances and minerals.
Often, deforming spondylosis of the lumbar spine develops as a result of severe trauma to the spinal column. Risk factors can also include constant physical activity on the lumbar spine - yes, professional athletes often suffer from such a disease.
But on the other hand, no less often, the cause of chronic deformity is ... lack of movement. Sedentary work, static pressure on the spine, lack of active rest and physical activity - all this leads to weakening of the muscles of the back and abdomen, impaired normal circulation and trophic tissue.
Spondylosis of the lumbar spine: the main symptoms
A similar disease develops slowly, so the clinical picture may be slightly blurry. For example, in the first stages some external manifestations may be completely absent. In the future, there is a feeling of stiffness in the lumbar region. Unfortunately, people attribute this symptom to fatigue and do not go to the doctor.
Nevertheless, as the disease develops, more and more new signs appear. In particular, the feeling of light discomfort is replaced by quite noticeable pain, which intensifies during physical exertion. Many people complain of insomnia, because soreness does not always disappear at night.
Spondylosis of the lumbosacral spine is accompanied by the formation of bone growths on the vertebrae. Such neoplasms often compress blood vessels and nerve fibers, which entails serious complications. For example, patients often complain of numbness and tingling in the legs. From time to time, the so-called "false lameness" appears, caused by pressure on the nerve roots.
Spondylosis of the lumbar spine and its treatment
As already mentioned, with a similar disease, chronic deformation occurs. Therefore, therapy is aimed at eliminating the main symptoms and preventing further pathological changes in the spinal column.
In periods of exacerbation, when the pain becomes too strong, patients are prescribed painkillers and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, in particular, agents containing ibuprofen and paracetamol. An acute attack is stopped by electrophoresis and novocaine.
In order to stop the process of deformation, patients are prescribed special drugs - chondroprotectors, as well as drugs that improve blood circulation. And of course, a regular part of therapy is regular therapeutic exercises that help strengthen muscles, as well as physiotherapy and massage.