Spondylosis (spinal arthritis): what it is, symptoms and treatment

Spondylosis, also known as spinal arthritis (spondyloarthrosis), is a degenerative condition that affects the joints of the spine — most commonly in the cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) regions. It occurs when the cartilage lining the facet joints wears down, leading to friction between the bones.

It is a process linked to the natural wear of the spine and, in most cases, it is treated without surgery.

Causes and risk factors

Natural aging is the main cause. Some factors can speed up the wear:

• Excess weight and overload on the spine
• Previous injuries
• Genetic predisposition
• Poor posture and a sedentary lifestyle

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending on the region affected:

• Cervical spondylosis: neck discomfort, stiffness and possible radiation to the arms.
• Lumbar spondylosis: back pain, stiffness and possible radiation to the legs.

As the vertebrae wear down, so-called "bone spurs" (osteophytes) may also form. Keep in mind: finding spondylosis on an imaging test does not, on its own, mean it is the cause of the pain — it is a common finding from a certain age onward, including in people with no symptoms.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made through a clinical evaluation — history and physical examination — complemented by imaging tests such as X-rays and MRI, which help identify the degree of joint wear and any associated problems.

Types by location

• Cervical spondylosis
• Thoracic (dorsal) spondylosis
• Lumbar spondylosis
• Lumbosacral spondylosis

Treatment

In the vast majority of cases, treatment is conservative, without surgery. Depending on your case, it combines:

• Pain and inflammation control
• Specialized physical therapy and strengthening of the supporting muscles
• Postural retraining and lifestyle changes
• Facet injections or blocks, when indicated

Surgery is reserved for specific, more severe cases that do not respond to conservative treatment. When indicated, it can be performed using a minimally invasive technique.

Spondylosis is wear and tear — it cannot be "erased" from the scan. The goal of treatment is to take pain out of your daily routine and restore your quality of life.

Prevention

Healthy habits make a difference: regular physical activity, weight control, good posture and looking after your spine day to day. If pain persists, seek an evaluation by a specialist — treating the cause early helps keep the pain from becoming chronic.