PhysiotherapyToday
Spondylosis
By KalpanaMoorthy
The spine is made up ofsmall-stacked bones called the vertebrae. Between each of thevertebrae are soft cushions (called discs) that act as shock absorbers.Spondylosis is the breakdown of these discs and results in thevertebrae rubbing together. This condition occurs slowly and isseen mostly in older people. A more common term for this arthritisof the bone is osteoarthritis.
Spondylosis may involve:
· fusion (the growing together of the vertebrae)
· immobilization (the inability to move the spine) and
· pressure on nerves exiting the spinal cord
Nerves exit between thevertebrae and branch out to your body. As the discs between thevertebrae wear out, the bones begin to rub against each other.When the bones rub against each other they may put pressure onthe nerves. As this progresses, the bones also begin to move outof their natural positions, causing pain and disability.
Prevention is the key to good spinal health. It is believed thatexercise, good body mechanics, learning correct lifting techniquesand good posture may postpone arthritis.
Spondylosis is hard to treat.The treatment may include:
· Physical therapy
· Immobilization of the area, such as a neck collar orsoft back brace
· Therapeautic massage
· Sleeping on a firm mattress
· Pain relief
Since spondylosis is a slowlyprogressing disease, it is never too late to start making healthy,preventive changes in your life, such as beginning a supervisedexercise and stretching program, can help. Check with a physiotherapistfor an evaluation of any ongoing back pain.
Kalpana Moorthy,
Professional Medical Centre