That stubborn morning stiffness in your neck that just won’t quit, or the creeping back pain you start to notice during your afternoon commute—these might seem like everyday nuisances, but at Summit Orthopedics, we know they could be signs of something more: spondylosis.
This common condition results from changes that happen to your spine’s discs and joints as you age. But it doesn’t have to control your life. By getting to know spondylosis—its symptoms, treatment options and ways to slow its progression—you can take charge of your spinal health.
At Summit Orthopedics, our spine specialists in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area focus on personalized care. Whether you need conservative treatments or advanced surgical options, our team works with you to reduce pain and help you move better every day.
What Is Spondylosis?
Spondylosis refers to the changes that occur in your spine’s discs and joints over time. The spine is made up of bones called vertebrae, and between them are soft discs that cushion and support movement. As you get older, these discs and joints can wear down, leading to stiffness and pain.
Meanwhile, the vertebrae may develop bone spurs, which are small, bony growths that form along the edges of bones and can irritate surrounding nerves. When this degeneration happens in the neck area (the cervical spine), it’s called cervical spondylosis; When it affects the lower back, it’s known as lumbar spondylosis. Though the location differs, the causes and symptoms of both types are quite similar.
Symptoms of Spondylosis
Symptoms of spondylosis vary depending on where in the spine it occurs and how severe it is:
- Headaches sometimes develop with cervical spondylosis.
- Muscle weakness may appear when compressed nerve roots affect muscle control. This usually impacts the arms with cervical spondylosis or the legs with lumbar spondylosis.
- Neck pain and stiffness are common symptoms.
- Numbness or tingling happens when nerves under pressure can’t send signals properly. These sensations often spread down into the arms or legs.
- Reduced range of motion in the affected area means that turning your head or bending becomes harder over time.
Treating Spondylosis: Pain Relief Options
Managing spondylosis isn’t just about masking symptoms—it’s about addressing the underlying causes and helping your spine work better. The right combination of treatments can help you move more comfortably and regain control over your daily activities.
- Anti-inflammatory medications reduce swelling around affected joints. Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen often provide significant relief.
- Heat and cold therapy offer simple but effective pain relief.
- Muscle relaxants help when muscle spasms accompany spondylosis.
- Physical therapy forms the cornerstone of treatment. A skilled physical therapist designs programs to stretch and strengthen the muscles supporting your spine. These exercises improve flexibility and reduce stiffness.
- Lifestyle modifications play a crucial role. Maintaining good posture, using ergonomic furniture and avoiding activities that worsen symptoms all contribute to better outcomes.
Preventing Progression
While spondylosis can’t be completely reversed, you can slow its progression and reduce symptoms with some simple lifestyle changes. Regular exercise is important—low-impact activities like swimming, walking and yoga help keep your spine flexible and strengthen the muscles that support it.
Proper posture also plays a big role. Maintaining the natural curves of your spine helps reduce pressure on your spinal joints and prevents extra wear and tear. Managing your weight can make a real difference, too, especially for lumbar spondylosis. Even a modest weight loss can ease the strain on your spine and reduce discomfort.
Finally, making ergonomic adjustments at work and home supports healthy spinal alignment. Using adjustable chairs, setting your monitor at eye level and adding supportive pillows all contribute to better spinal health.
Care for Spondylosis at Summit Orthopedics
It’s important to recognize when spondylosis symptoms need professional attention. If you experience persistent pain that doesn’t improve with rest, worsening weakness in your arms or legs, or symptoms that interfere with your daily activities, it’s time to consult a healthcare provider.
Summit Orthopedics surgeons are available at nearly 30 convenient locations across the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area, serving Minnesota and western Wisconsin. Our state-of-the-art, comprehensive orthopedic centers offer same-day appointments from a team of experts who offer the full scope of orthopedic care.
Find your Summit Orthopedics back expert, request an appointment or call us at (651) 968-5201 to schedule a consultation.
