Lumbar spondylarthrosis is one of the most common causes of chronic back pain. The disease is associated with a gradual deformation of the cartilage and bone structures of the spine. Most often, the disease is associated with age-related changes in the body and is found in older people. But often, similar diseases are encountered by younger people.
Spondylarthrosis of the lumbar: the main causes
As already mentioned, most often the disease is associated with age-related changes in the cartilage of the spine. Nevertheless, there are other reasons for the development of deformations. For example, the disease is often the result of a disturbance in the normal circulation and trophism of cartilage.
But at a young age, spondylarthrosis can be a complication after a previous spinal injury. Risk factors include a 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 region that accounts for most of the load.
Lumbar spondylarthrosis: symptoms and course of the disease
As a rule, the first stages of the disease go unnoticed by the patient. Symptoms at this stage include slight discomfort and pain in the lower back, which intensify with sudden movements, intense exertion, or, conversely, prolonged sitting.
Meanwhile, there is a change in cartilage and a slow deformation of the intervertebral discs. Cartilages lose their elasticity and gradually thin out. In the future, there is an inflammatory process of periarticular bone tissues and articular bags itself, which, of course, leads to a deterioration in the condition of a sick person. The pains become stronger, often give to the ribs, 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 on the spinal column, which affects gait and posture. Often there is a change in the normal structure of the foot.
Of course, exacerbation of inflammation is accompanied by severe pain, limitation and stiffness of movements. Deforming spondylarthrosis of the lumbar spine is an extremely dangerous and serious disease. The fact is that as the disease develops on the vertebrae, uncharacteristic bone growths form, 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 such a disease is long and complex. In periods of exacerbation, medication is indicated. Patients are prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs and warming ointments that relieve soreness. It will also be useful to take chondroprotectors that protect the cartilage tissue, preventing its further changes. And muscle spasms use muscle relaxants.
But even after the disappearance of the main symptoms, spondylarthrosis of the lumbosacral region requires treatment, which is determined strictly individually. Sick people are recommended to regularly engage in therapeutic exercises, while avoiding strong loads on the spine. Massage sessions will help restore blood circulation and relieve muscle spasm. Acupuncture, reflexology, phonophoresis and magnetotherapy will be helpful. Surgical intervention is advisable only if conservative treatment did not give the expected result or the disease is in the final stages of development.