Robert Moghim MD
Anchor Healthcare
Lumbar Spondylosis with myelopathy
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Lumbar spondylosis with myelopathy is a condition where the lower part of the spine goes through wear and tear as you get older, leading to pressure on the spinal cord. This can cause problems like back pain, weakness, numbness, and difficulty walking. Imagine the spine like a stack of blocks; if the blocks and cushions between them wear down, it can cause the nerves to get squeezed, resulting in these symptoms.
This condition is more common in older adults because their spines have had more time to wear out. Things like being overweight, smoking, and sitting too much can make it worse. Diagnosing the condition involves looking at pictures of the spine, such as X-rays or MRIs, which help providers see where the spine is being pinched or damaged.
Treatment often starts with physical therapy, exercises and medications to manage pain and improve movement. However, if the condition worsens, interventional pain therapies such as spinal ligament decompression, epidural injections, or spinal cord stimulation may be options. On some occasions, surgery might be needed to relieve the pressure on the spinal cord. Staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and not smoking can help manage the condition and improve quality of life.
FAQs
How is lumbar spondylosis with myelopathy diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies like X-rays and MRIs, which help visualize degenerative changes and spinal cord compression. A thorough physical examination and possibly nerve conduction studies can assist in differentiating this condition from other causes of back pain and neurological symptoms.
What are the common symptoms associated with lumbar spondylosis with myelopathy?
Symptoms commonly include chronic lower back pain, weakness or numbness in the legs, difficulty walking, and in severe cases, issues with bladder or bowel control. These symptoms arise from the pressure exerted on the spinal cord and may progressively worsen if left untreated.
What is lumbar spondylosis with myelopathy and how does it occur?
Lumbar spondylosis with myelopathy is a degenerative condition where the lower spine undergoes wear and tear, leading to compression of the spinal cord. This condition is primarily age-related and occurs as the intervertebral discs and facet joints degrade, potentially resulting in the formation of bone spurs that press against the spinal cord, causing symptoms like back pain and neurological deficits.
What lifestyle changes can help manage lumbar spondylosis with myelopathy?
Maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, and avoiding smoking can help manage the condition and slow its progression. These changes can reduce stress on the spine, enhance overall spinal health, and improve quality of life.
What treatment options are available for lumbar spondylosis with myelopathy?
Initial treatment often includes physical therapy, exercises, and medications to alleviate pain and improve functionality. For more severe cases, interventional treatments like epidural injections or surgery, such as decompressive laminectomy, may be necessary to relieve spinal cord pressure.