what is lumbar spondylosis

Lumbar spondylosis, also known as degenerative disc disease and osteoarthritis, is an age-related degeneration of the vertebrae and disks of the lower back. This condition involves the breakdown of one or more of the disks that separate the bones of the spine, leading to a reduction in the cushioning between the vertebrae and the ability to absorb pressure put on the spine. While most people experience some degeneration of the spine as they age, not everyone experiences back pain as a result of lumbar spondylosis. The condition is characterized by degenerative changes affecting the disks, vertebral bodies, and associated joints of the lumbar spine, and it is often associated with spinal stenosis, degenerative spondylolisthesis, and other pathologies. Symptoms of lumbar spondylosis may include stiffness, pain, or limited range of motion in the lower back, and it can be diagnosed through imaging techniques such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans. Treatment options range from nonsurgical approaches, including medical management, pain management, physical therapy, and rehabilitation, to surgical techniques such as spinal fusion in cases of malalignment or excessive motion of the spine.