By definition, the main cause of spondylosis is the normal aging process. As we grow older, the anatomical components that support the spine naturally begin to deteriorate. With time, this deterioration can eventually lead to the onset of a variety of spinal disorders. This can also cause chronic neck and back pain associated with motion, nerve compression or inflammation of the surrounding structures, which is often associated with numbness, tingling and weakness. It is important to consult a doctor to clearly define the origin of your condition before recommending the most appropriate treatment regimen. Read on to learn more about this degenerative condition as well as the types of treatment available to get you back to your daily routine.

Spinal degeneration

In a healthy spine, several components work together to provide the stability we require from the spinal column and to maintain the range of motion necessary in our neck and back. Discs act as shock absorbers that cushion and support the spine, while vertebral joints connect adjacent vertebrae and the spinal canal covers the spinal cord. As we grow older, these same components go through various unavoidable changes, which account for the minor aches and pains and loss of mobility we accept as part of the aging process.

Spondylosis occurs when these changes advance to the point that they can be categorized into a more specific condition than getting older. For example, some types of spondylosis include instances when:

• Spinal discs flatten, rupture or bulge, which is a sign of degenerative disc disease
• Facet joints lose cartilage and become inflamed, signifying spinal osteoarthritis
• Spinal canal becomes constricted with anatomical material like bone spurs, indicating spinal osteoarthritis and spinal stenosis
• The narrow passageways that allow nerves to enter and exit the spinal column constrict, indicating foraminal stenosis

Spondylosis treatment

Of course, just because one of the leading causes of spondylosis is the natural aging process, it doesn’t mean there’s no way to treat the condition. While aging obviously can’t be avoided, there are many treatments that can reduce the likelihood you’ll develop a degenerative spine condition. Even if you are diagnosed with a degenerative disease under the spondylosis umbrella, you have options, such as conservative and surgical alternatives.

At USA Spine Care, for example, we offer a variety of outpatient procedures to help address spinal degeneration. Contact us to learn more about our minimally invasive spine surgery, which has helped more than 75,000 patients find relief from their chronic neck or back conditions. Our procedures offer a shorter recovery and a safer and effective alternative to traditional open neck or back procedures.^

Our minimally invasive spine surgery is performed in state-of-the-art facilities located conveniently throughout the country. The board-certified surgeons+ at USA Spine Care use a less than 1-inch incision and muscle-sparing techniques in order to alleviate symptoms while resulting in less bleeding and a lower risk of complication compared to traditional open back surgery.^

Reach out to our dedicated team today and ask for your no-cost MRI review* to determine if you are a potential candidate for our minimally invasive spine surgery.

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