what is spondylosis of the spine

Spondylosis is a condition that refers to the degeneration of the spine due to age-related changes in the bones, discs, cartilage, and ligaments. It is also known as spinal osteoarthritis and can affect any part of the spine, but it is more commonly seen in the cervical (neck) and lumbar (low back) areas. Spondylosis can lead to spinal stenosis, which is a narrowing of the spinal canal, and compression of the spinal cord and/or spinal nerve roots. Symptoms of spondylosis include neck or back pain, stiffness, tingling, numbness, and weakness in the arms, hands, legs, and/or feet. A diagnosis of spondylosis is based primarily on information seen on images of the spine, such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans. Although non-operative treatment won’t change the structural effects of spondylosis, safe and effective treatments are available for patients who experience pain or neurologic changes related to this degenerative condition.