Lumbar Spondylosis – Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
Lumbar spondylosis is a degenerative condition that affects the lower spine. It commonly occurs with aging and can cause lower back pain, stiffness, and nerve-related symptoms. This page provides a comprehensive overview of the condition, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and physiotherapy management.
What is Lumbar Spondylosis?
Lumbar spondylosis refers to the age-related wear and tear affecting the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, and facet joints in the lumbar (lower) spine. It is a form of osteoarthritis that may lead to spinal stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility. While it is common among older adults, younger individuals with a sedentary lifestyle or spinal injuries may also develop the condition.
Causes of Lumbar Spondylosis
- Natural aging process
- Degeneration of intervertebral discs
- Loss of disc height
- Formation of bone spurs (osteophytes)
- Spinal injuries or repetitive strain
- Poor posture or ergonomics
- Genetic predisposition
Symptoms
- Chronic lower back pain
- Stiffness, especially in the morning
- Radiating pain to the buttocks or legs
- Numbness or tingling in the legs
- Weakness in lower extremities
- Reduced flexibility and mobility
Diagnosis
A healthcare provider will perform a detailed history and physical examination. Diagnostic tools may include:
- X-rays of the lumbar spine
- MRI or CT scans for soft tissue and nerve involvement
- Neurological testing
Complications
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of spinal canal)
- Herniated discs
- Chronic pain syndrome
- Limited range of motion
Treatment Options
Treatment may vary depending on the severity of the condition and symptoms:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Muscle relaxants or nerve pain medications
- Heat and cold therapy
- Postural correction
- Physiotherapy and exercise
- Epidural steroid injections (for severe nerve pain)
- Surgical intervention (rare and only if conservative measures fail)
Role of Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy plays a key role in managing lumbar spondylosis by improving flexibility, strength, and function while reducing pain.
Common Physiotherapy Treatments:
- Stretching exercises for the spine and lower limbs
- Core strengthening routines
- Posture training and ergonomic education
- Manual therapy or mobilization techniques
- Electrotherapy (TENS, IFT)
- Heat or cold packs for pain relief
Precautions and Lifestyle Changes
- Maintain proper posture while sitting and standing
- Use ergonomic chairs and lumbar support
- Avoid lifting heavy weights improperly
- Engage in regular low-impact exercises like swimming or walking
- Maintain a healthy body weight
- Quit smoking, as it accelerates spinal degeneration
FAQs About Lumbar Spondylosis
It is a degenerative condition affecting the lower spine due to aging and wear and tear of discs and joints.
Yes, it is considered a form of osteoarthritis affecting the lumbar spine.
Main causes include aging, disc degeneration, spinal injuries, and poor posture.
Symptoms include lower back pain, stiffness, and radiating pain to the legs.
Yes, it may compress spinal nerves causing numbness, tingling, or weakness.
It can range from mild to severe. Early management can prevent complications.
Diagnosis involves physical examination, X-rays, and MRI scans.
Surgery is rarely needed unless there is severe nerve compression not responding to conservative treatment.
Very effective. It helps reduce pain, strengthen core muscles, and improve flexibility.
Improper or high-impact exercises may worsen it. Always follow a physiotherapist’s guidance.
Gentle stretching, core strengthening, and low-impact aerobic exercises are generally beneficial.
While aging can’t be stopped, posture care, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle can reduce risk.
It may provide temporary support and relief during flare-ups but should not be used long-term.
Maintaining good posture, regular exercise, weight control, and avoiding smoking help greatly.
It is a chronic condition. With proper management, symptoms can be controlled and quality of life improved.