Lumbar Spondylitis

Lumbar spondylosis can be described as a degeneration of the lumbar vertebrae. Lumbar spondylosis causes back pain and stiffness. Over the years, the discs in the spine begin to break down, lose fluid, and become stiff. Again, this is a normal part of aging. Unfortunately, some of the side effects of these changes can cause back pain and stiffness. These include bone spurs that exert force on the lower back and cause spine pain; ligament stiffening, which affects mobility and causes back pain; herniated or bulging discs, which exert pressure on nerves and the spinal cord; and dehydrated discs, which leads to bone-on-bone contact that contributes to lower back pain.

 

Common Symptoms:

  • As with most spinal problems, lumbar spondylosis causes back pain and stiffness.
  • Muscle spasms in your lower back.
  • Grinding or popping sensations when you sit or stand up.
  • Numbness in the lower back and feet, and toes.
  • Pain in the buttocks.
  • Sciatica (leg pain.)
    In rare cases, lumbar spondylosis results in loss of bladder or bowel control.