Spondylosis of the lumbar (lumbosacral) spine is a chronic disease of the musculoskeletal system, in which the fourth and fifth intervertebral discs deform. On the surface of the vertebrae, bone tissue begins to grow in the form of protrusions and thorns, as a result of which the intervertebral openings and spinal canal narrow, exerting pressure on the nerve roots. This leads to a restriction of the mobility of the spine. Spondylosis of the lumbar spine is often accompanied by osteochondrosis.
Causes of spondylosis of the lumbar spine
The main reasons for the development of degenerative processes are:
- trauma or microtrauma of the spine;
- curvature of the spine ;
- long-term heavy loads on the spine;
- metabolic disorders, leading to excessive deposition in the body of calcareous salts;
- sedentary lifestyle;
- elderly age.
Symptoms of spondylosis of the lumbar spine:
- pain in the lumbar region with motion or with prolonged rest, often giving up in the leg;
- feeling of stiffness in the spine;
- false lameness due to discomfort in the thigh and buttocks;
- numbness, loss of sensation of the legs, especially after a long walk or standing position.
These symptoms are very blurred, especially at the initial stages of the disease. However, one of the characteristic signs of spondylosis with localization in the lumbar-sacral region is that when you tilt forward or lie, curled up, the pain disappears. This is due to the fact that in this situation, decompression of the nerve roots occurs.
For the diagnosis of spondylosis, radiography, magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography are used, with which you can clearly see the degenerative changes.
Treatment of spondylosis of the lumbar spine
First of all, the treatment of this disease is aimed at inhibition of destructive processes in the spine and in the elimination of pain syndrome. During an exacerbation, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Diclofenac, Ibuprofen, Indomethacin, Movalis, Ketonal) and analgesics (Novocain, Baralgin, Ketorol) are used in the form of tablets, injections and ointments.
At the end of the acute period, treatment activities include:
- massage;
- manual therapy;
- reflexotherapy;
- physiotherapy;
- therapeutic gymnastics .
Manual therapy should be gentle and performed by a professional. It is forbidden to use intensive massage and methods of stretching the spinal column.
Physiotherapeutic procedures may include the use of diadynamic currents, ultrasound, electrophoresis of drugs on the affected area.
Therapeutic gymnastics in spondylosis of the lumbar spine is aimed at strengthening the muscular framework - a group of muscles responsible for the spinal column. Also recommended exercises aimed at improving or maintaining the mobility of the spine. Physical loads are carried out in positions that ensure the unloading of the spine, for example, on all fours or lying down.
Surgical interventions in this disease are rare - in cases where there is pressure on the spinal cord.
Measures to prevent spondylosis:
- regular exercise;
- Exception of excessive loads on the spine;
- suppression of supercoolings;
- balanced diet;
- prevention of excess weight gain.
Excellent prevention of this disease is swimming, as well as exercises of oriental gymnastics.