What are the most effective treatments for spondylosis. How can you manage spondylosis symptoms at home. What medical interventions are available for spondylosis relief. When should you consider surgery for spondylosis. How does exercise impact spondylosis management. What lifestyle changes can help alleviate spondylosis discomfort. Are there alternative therapies for spondylosis treatment.

Understanding Spondylosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis

Spondylosis, also known as degenerative disc disease or spinal osteoarthritis, is a common condition that affects many adults as they age. This degenerative process can occur in various regions of the spine, including the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), and lumbar (lower back) areas. While some individuals may not experience symptoms, others may suffer from chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

The primary causes of spondylosis include:

• Natural wear and tear of spinal discs and joints
• Age-related changes in bone structure
• Genetic predisposition
• Previous spine injuries
• Poor posture and ergonomics

Common symptoms of spondylosis include:

• Neck or back pain
• Stiffness in the affected area
• Muscle spasms
• Reduced range of motion
• Numbness or tingling in the extremities
• Headaches (in cervical spondylosis)

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history review, and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans. Early diagnosis can lead to more effective management and treatment strategies.

At-Home Spondylosis Management Techniques

Managing spondylosis symptoms at home is an essential part of treatment. These techniques can provide relief and improve quality of life for those suffering from this condition.

Cold and Heat Therapy

Alternating between cold and heat therapy can be highly effective in managing spondylosis symptoms. Cold therapy helps reduce inflammation and numb pain, while heat therapy promotes blood flow, relaxes muscles, and aids in healing.

How to apply cold therapy:

• Use ice packs or cold compresses for 15-20 minutes at a time
• Apply after exercise or during pain flare-ups
• Repeat several times throughout the day as needed

How to apply heat therapy:

• Use heating pads or hot compresses for 15-20 minutes at a time
• Can be applied for up to two hours in some cases
• Use regularly to maintain flexibility and reduce stiffness

Always use a towel as a barrier between the skin and the cold or heat source to prevent skin damage. Avoid using these therapies if you have neuropathy or sensory deficits.

Exercise and Stretching

Regular exercise and stretching can significantly improve spondylosis symptoms by strengthening muscles, improving flexibility, and promoting proper posture. Consider incorporating the following into your routine:

• Low-impact aerobic exercises (e.g., swimming, walking, cycling)
• Gentle stretching exercises targeting the affected area
• Core-strengthening exercises to support the spine
• Yoga or Pilates for overall flexibility and strength

Always consult with a healthcare professional or physical therapist before starting a new exercise regimen to ensure it’s appropriate for your condition.

Ergonomic Adjustments

Making ergonomic changes to your home and work environment can help reduce strain on your spine and alleviate spondylosis symptoms. Consider the following adjustments:

• Use an ergonomic chair with proper lumbar support
• Adjust your computer monitor to eye level
• Use a standing desk or take regular breaks from sitting
• Invest in a supportive mattress and pillow
• Avoid prolonged periods in positions that strain your neck or back

Medication Options for Spondylosis Relief

While there’s no specific “spondylosis medication,” various over-the-counter and prescription medications can help manage symptoms effectively.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly recommended for spondylosis pain relief. These include:

• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
• Naproxen (Aleve)
• Aspirin

Always follow dosing recommendations and consult with your doctor before starting any new medication regimen.

Prescription Medications

In cases where over-the-counter medications don’t provide sufficient relief, your doctor may prescribe stronger options:

• Oral corticosteroids for short-term inflammation reduction
• Muscle relaxants for managing muscle spasms
• Antidepressants for chronic pain management
• Anti-seizure medications to block nerve pain signals
• Prescription opioids for severe, short-term pain (used sparingly due to addiction risk)

These medications should be taken under strict medical supervision and as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Non-Surgical Interventions for Spondylosis

When at-home treatments and medications aren’t enough, various non-surgical interventions can provide additional relief for spondylosis symptoms.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in spondylosis management. A trained physical therapist can:

• Develop a customized exercise program
• Teach proper body mechanics and posture
• Provide manual therapy techniques
• Offer guidance on pain management strategies

Regular physical therapy sessions can improve strength, flexibility, and overall function, reducing spondylosis-related discomfort.

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic adjustments may help alleviate pain and improve spinal function for some individuals with spondylosis. Chiropractors use various techniques to:

• Realign the spine
• Reduce pressure on affected nerves
• Improve joint mobility
• Decrease muscle tension

Always consult with your primary care physician before seeking chiropractic care to ensure it’s appropriate for your condition.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese healing practice, may offer relief for some spondylosis sufferers. This technique involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to:

• Stimulate natural pain-relieving chemicals
• Improve blood flow to affected areas
• Reduce muscle tension and spasms
• Promote overall relaxation

While scientific evidence supporting acupuncture for spondylosis is limited, many individuals report positive outcomes.

Advanced Treatment Options for Severe Spondylosis

In cases where conservative treatments fail to provide adequate relief, more advanced interventions may be necessary.

Epidural Steroid Injections

Epidural steroid injections involve delivering anti-inflammatory medication directly to the affected area of the spine. These injections can:

• Reduce inflammation around compressed nerves
• Provide short to medium-term pain relief
• Improve function and mobility

While not a permanent solution, epidural injections can offer significant relief and may be repeated if necessary.

Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat to disable nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals. This technique can:

• Provide long-lasting pain relief (up to a year or more)
• Improve function and quality of life
• Reduce reliance on pain medications

The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis and has a relatively quick recovery time.

Surgical Interventions

Surgery is generally considered a last resort for spondylosis treatment. Surgical options may include:

• Discectomy: Removal of a herniated disc
• Laminectomy: Removal of part of the vertebral bone to relieve pressure
• Spinal fusion: Joining two or more vertebrae to stabilize the spine
• Artificial disc replacement: Replacing a damaged disc with an artificial one

The decision to undergo surgery should be made carefully, considering the potential risks and benefits, and only after exhausting conservative treatment options.

Lifestyle Modifications for Long-Term Spondylosis Management

Adopting certain lifestyle changes can significantly impact the progression and management of spondylosis.

Maintaining a Healthy Weight

Excess weight puts additional stress on the spine, exacerbating spondylosis symptoms. To maintain a healthy weight:

• Follow a balanced, nutritious diet
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Consult with a nutritionist if needed
• Monitor portion sizes and calorie intake

Losing even a small amount of weight can significantly reduce strain on the spine and improve symptoms.

Quitting Smoking

Smoking has been linked to increased disc degeneration and chronic pain. Quitting smoking can:

• Improve blood flow to spinal tissues
• Enhance the body’s natural healing processes
• Reduce the risk of further spinal degeneration
• Improve overall health and well-being

Seek support from healthcare professionals or smoking cessation programs to increase your chances of success.

Stress Management

Chronic stress can exacerbate pain and muscle tension associated with spondylosis. Implement stress-reduction techniques such as:

• Mindfulness meditation
• Deep breathing exercises
• Progressive muscle relaxation
• Regular exercise
• Engaging in hobbies and social activities

Incorporating these practices into your daily routine can help manage both stress and spondylosis symptoms.

Alternative and Complementary Therapies for Spondylosis

While scientific evidence may be limited, some individuals find relief through alternative and complementary therapies.

Massage Therapy

Regular massage can help alleviate muscle tension and promote relaxation. Benefits may include:

• Reduced pain and stiffness
• Improved circulation to affected areas
• Enhanced flexibility and range of motion
• Stress reduction and overall relaxation

Seek out a massage therapist experienced in treating individuals with spinal conditions.

Herbal Supplements

Some herbal supplements may offer anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Popular options include:

• Turmeric
• Boswellia
• Devil’s claw
• White willow bark

Always consult with your healthcare provider before taking any supplements, as they may interact with medications or have side effects.

Mind-Body Techniques

Mind-body practices can help manage pain and improve overall well-being. Consider exploring:

• Tai Chi
• Qigong
• Biofeedback
• Guided imagery

These techniques can help reduce stress, improve body awareness, and promote relaxation, potentially alleviating spondylosis symptoms.

In conclusion, managing spondylosis often requires a multifaceted approach, combining various treatment modalities and lifestyle modifications. By working closely with healthcare professionals and remaining proactive in your care, it’s possible to effectively manage symptoms and maintain a good quality of life despite this common degenerative condition.

Spondylosis treatment and pain relief options

We all deal with minor aches and pains from time to time. But as we get older, pain can become a more regular part of our lives, especially when it comes to our necks and backs.

Spondylosis – also called degenerative disc disease or spinal osteoarthritis – is one of the most common reasons for adult neck and back pain. It’s also very normal since it’s a condition that just comes with age.

While some people may not experience any spondylosis symptoms, if you do have symptoms, you’re probably looking for the best ways to treat and manage things like pain, stiffness, muscle spasms and more.

Below, we cover how symptoms can be managed at home, nonsurgical therapies from doctors and specialists, and when more advanced spine care like surgery may be recommended.

At-home spondylosis treatment options

Whether you suffer from cervical spondylosis (neck), thoracic spondylosis (mid back) or lumbar spondylosis (low back), you want to know: What is the best treatment for spondylosis?

The truth is that there is no one “best” treatment, rather a combination of treatments tailored to your unique symptoms. And a big part of this will be finding what works for you to manage symptoms at home.

A combination of cold and heat therapy

Since spondylosis is a degenerative condition, pain and stiffness can be chronic for some people. But using a combination of both cold and heat therapy when it makes sense can be a big help.

For example, applying ice or a cold compress after exercise or pain flare-up can help reduce inflammation and numb pain. But using a heating pad or hot compress on a regular basis can help improve blood flow to relax muscles and joints, and promote healing.

If you’re using a bag of ice or a cold compress, ice your neck or back for 15-20 minutes a few times throughout the day. If you’re using heat, the same recommendations apply, though you can apply a low level of heat for as long as two hours at a time.

However, make sure to use a towel between ice packs or heating pads as a protective barrier, and monitor your skin to decrease the risk of burns. In addition, we recommend not using hot or cold therapy if you have neuropathy or other sensory deficits.

Medications for spondylosis symptom relief

There’s no specific “spondylosis medication”. Rather there are a range of over-the-counter and prescription medications that may be recommended to help relieve spondylosis-related pain, stiffness and muscle spasms.

NSAIDs

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, like ibuprofen (Advil and Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) are commonly recommended to help relieve pain and inflammation. They’re available at any drugstore without a prescription, but it’s important to follow dosing recommendations. You should also talk with your doctor before starting a new medication.

Oral corticosteroids

If over-the-counter pain relievers can’t offer enough relief for pain, your doctor may prescribe oral corticosteroids to use in the short-term. This type of medication works by acting like a specific hormone in your body that naturally reduces inflammation, which may be the cause of your pain and discomfort.

Muscle relaxers

Muscle spasms are uncontrollable, often painful contractions of muscles. If you have spondylosis-related muscle spasms, your doctor may prescribe a muscle relaxer.

Muscle relaxers are taken orally, and they work with your central nervous system to prevent your brain from receiving pain signals from your nerves. That means that if nerve pain associated with muscle spasms is one of your spondylosis symptoms, muscle relaxers may be a helpful addition to your treatment regimen.

Antidepressants

You’ve likely heard how antidepressants help stabilize and improve various mood disorders. But you may not know that they’ve also become a tool used for fighting chronic pain conditions all over the body, including the neck and back.

While doctors aren’t entirely sure why antidepressants help with spondylosis pain, it’s possible that this type of medication triggers a release of chemicals in the body that reduce the pain signal. But it’s important to know that antidepressants take a little time to take effect and they need to be taken daily to sustain any positive effects like pain relief.

Anti-seizure medications

Anti-seizure medications as a spondylosis treatment? In some cases, yes. Depending on your overall health, health history and spondylosis diagnosis, this type of prescription medication may be recommended to help block pain signals related to nerve irritation or compression.

Prescription opioids

While rare, opioids like hydrocodone (Vicodin)and oxycodone (OxyContin and Percocet) may be prescribed for short-term pain management while you heal following an injury or surgery. However, opioids are powerful drugs and overuse can lead to addiction, plus they can make pain worse in the long run. So, they should only be used as directed and not as long-term treatment for spondylosis, or any other condition – with the exception of comfort care for a terminal illness.

Lifestyle changes

Taking steps to live a healthy, active lifestyle is important for improving your overall health. So, certain lifestyle choices can help reduce neck and back pain, and improve your quality of life. A few important lifestyle considerations include:

• Staying active – Regular physical activity is one of the best things you can do to manage and treat spondylosis symptoms. That’s because activity keeps your body in working order, helping you maintain balance, stability, range of motion a heathy weight and more. For starters, if you normally sit for an extended period, as little as 5-10 minutes of walking at intervals throughout the day will help. But spine physical therapy, which we’ll talk more about later, can also be an important and helpful tool for managing spondylosis.
• Eating a healthy, balanced diet – Eating a balanced diet can help you avoid excessive weight gain, and when paired with regular exercise, can help you lose any extra weight that may contribute to neck and back pain. You should try to work in as many nutrient-rich foods like whole grains, fruits, lean meats and vegetables as possible, while reducing processed foods.
• Reducing stress – Less stress can help decrease muscle tension in your neck, shoulders and back. Deep breathing, meditation, taking a quick break from a task, or listening to soothing music are some easy options to relieve typical daily stressors.
• Getting enough sleep – Getting the right amount of rest each night is an important part of the body’s repair and recovery process. Create an evening routine that promotes relaxation before heading to sleep. Also try to regulate your environment so that heat, cold or noise don’t keep you awake or wake you up.

Back braces and soft cervical collars

Sometimes doctors recommend back braces and soft cervical collars, which are used to limit motion so your spinal muscles can rest, while also providing support.

However, wearing a brace or collar is often done for just short periods of time. That’s because limiting movement and providing that extra support for too long can lead to a decrease in muscle strength, which could increase back and neck problems.

Specialty therapies for spondylosis treatment

In addition to managing symptoms at home, additional therapies with the help of specialists may be important, too.

Physical therapy for spondylosis

As we mentioned earlier, staying active is key to keeping your body in working order. But an important part of managing spondylosis, is targeting the specific areas of your spine that have weakened with age and working to strengthen them. That’s where physical therapy comes in.

Spine physical therapists are experts in how the body moves. They can help teach you specific exercises to strengthen and condition your neck, mid-back and low back to help relieve and even heal pain.

Depending on how long you’ve been managing pain, a more intensive physical therapy program like TRIA’s Neck and Back Strengthening Program may be recommended. These spine-strengthening programs are specifically designed for people suffering from chronic pain.

Chiropractic therapy

Chiropractic care is an option for managing spondylosis neck and back symptoms. In addition to hot and cold therapy, ultrasound and massage, chiropractors often perform spinal adjustments – also known as spinal manipulation – to help reduce pain.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a traditional eastern medicine practice that can reduce back pain for most people who try it. During a session, a trained acupuncturist inserts extremely thin needles at strategic points and varying depths in different parts of your body to stimulate blood flow, release hormones that may improve your mood, and block pain signals to reduce pain.

Injection therapy

Injections are minimally invasive treatments that can offer longer, short-term relief. We say “longer, short-term” because while they may offer significant pain relief, the effects are temporary. On average, steroid shots relieve pain for three months, though some may feel relief for up to six months.

When is cervical, thoracic or lumbar spondylosis surgery recommended?

Surgery is used as a spondylosis treatment in very specific instances. For example, if spondylosis has led to nerve or spinal cord compression, surgery may be necessary to relieve the pressure that’s been causing any pain, numbness or weakness in the spine and other extremities. In addition, surgery may be recommended to stabilize a part of the spine to help prevent abnormal movement of the vertebrae and relieve pain.

Don’t ignore neck and back pain

While you can’t stop the aging process, you can take steps to manage and maybe even heal neck and back pain from spondylosis.

Taking over-the-counter pain relievers when you need them, icing or heating your sore spots, and staying active are key to managing painful symptoms. But working with a spine physical therapist can help strengthen your neck and back to reduce and even heal pain.

However, if at-home methods and physical therapy have lost their effectiveness or you’re experiencing new pain, working with a spine care specialist to discuss other treatment options like injections or surgery can be your next step.

Ankylosing spondylitis – Treatment – NHS

There’s no cure for ankylosing spondylitis (AS), but treatment is available to help relieve the symptoms.

Treatment can also help delay or prevent the process of the spine joining up (fusing) and stiffening.

These treatments can also help if you have non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis.

In most cases treatment involves a combination of:

• exercise
• physiotherapy
• medicine

Physiotherapy and exercise

Keeping active can improve your posture and range of spinal movement, along with preventing your spine becoming stiff and painful.

As well as keeping active, physiotherapy is a key part of treating AS. A physiotherapist can advise about the most effective exercises and draw up an exercise programme that suits you.

Types of physiotherapy recommended for AS include:

• a group exercise programme – where you exercise with others
• an individual exercise programme – you are given exercises to do by yourself
• hydrotherapy – exercise in water, usually a warm, shallow swimming pool or a special hydrotherapy bath; the buoyancy of the water helps make movement easier by supporting you, and the warmth can relax your muscles

Some people prefer to swim or play sport to keep flexible. This is usually fine, although some daily stretching and exercise is also important.

If you’re ever in doubt, speak to your physiotherapist or rheumatologist before taking up a new form of sport or exercise.

The National Ankylosing Spondylitis Society (NASS) has detailed information about different types of exercise to help you manage your condition.

Painkillers

You may need painkillers to manage your condition while you’re being referred to a rheumatologist. The rheumatologist may continue prescribing painkillers, although not everyone needs them all the time.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

The first type of painkiller usually prescribed is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). As well as helping ease pain, NSAIDs can help relieve swelling (inflammation) in your joints.

Examples of NSAIDs include:

• ibuprofen
• naproxen
• diclofenac
• etoricoxib

When prescribing NSAIDs, your GP or rheumatologist will try to find the 1 that suits you and the lowest possible dose that relieves your symptoms. Your dose will be monitored and reviewed as necessary.

Paracetamol

If NSAIDs are unsuitable for you or if you need extra pain relief, an alternative painkiller, such as paracetamol, may be recommended.

Paracetamol rarely causes side effects and can be used in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. However, paracetamol may not be suitable for people with liver problems or those dependent on alcohol.

Codeine

If necessary, you may also be prescribed a stronger type of painkiller called codeine.

Codeine can cause side effects, including: 

• feeling sick
• being sick
• constipation
• drowsiness

Biological treatments

Anti-TNF medicine

If your symptoms cannot be controlled using NSAIDs and exercising and stretching, anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) medicine may be recommended. TNF is a chemical produced by cells when tissue is inflamed.

Anti-TNF medicines are given by injection and work by preventing the effects of TNF, as well as reducing the inflammation in your joints caused by ankylosing spondylitis.

If your rheumatologist recommends using anti-TNF medicine, the decision about whether they’re right for you must be discussed carefully, and your progress will be closely monitored.

In rare cases anti-TNF medicine can interfere with the immune system, increasing your risk of developing potentially serious infections.

If your symptoms do not improve significantly after taking anti-TNF medicine for at least 3 months the treatment will be stopped. You may be offered a different anti-TNF medicine.

Monoclonal antibody treatment

Monoclonal antibodies, such as secukinumab and ixekizumab, may be offered to people with AS who do not respond to NSAIDs or anti-TNF medicine, or as an alternative to anti-TNF medicine.

This type of treatment works by blocking the effects of a protein involved in triggering inflammation.

JAK inhibitors

JAK inhibitors such as upadacitinib are a new type of medicine that may be offered to people with AS who do not respond to anti-TNF medicine or cannot take it.

They work by blocking enzymes (proteins) that the immune system uses to trigger inflammation. They’re taken as tablets.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids have a powerful anti-inflammatory effect and can be taken as injections by people with AS.

If a particular joint is inflamed, corticosteroids can be injected directly into the joint. You’ll need to rest the joint for up to 48 hours after the injection.

It’s usually recommended to limit corticosteroid injections to no more than 3 times in one year, with at least 3 months between injections in the same joint.

This is because corticosteroid injections can cause a number of side effects, such as:

• infection in response to the injection
• the skin around the injection may change colour (depigmentation)
• the surrounding tissue may waste away
• a tendon near the joint may burst (rupture)

Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs)

Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are an alternative type of medicine often used to treat other types of arthritis.

DMARDs may be prescribed for AS, although they’re only beneficial in treating pain and inflammation in joints in areas of the body other than the spine.

Sulfasalazine and methotrexate are the main DMARDs sometimes used to treat inflammation of joints other than the spine.

Surgery

Most people with AS will not need surgery. However, joint replacement surgery may be recommended to improve pain and movement in the affected joint if the joint has become severely damaged.

For example, if the hip joints are affected, a hip replacement may be carried out.

In rare cases corrective surgery may be needed if the spine becomes badly bent.

Follow-up

As the symptoms of AS develop slowly and tend to come and go, you’ll need to see your rheumatologist for regular check-ups.

They’ll make sure your treatment is working properly and may carry out physical assessments to assess how your condition is progressing. This may involve further sets of the same blood tests or X-rays you had at the time of your diagnosis.

Page last reviewed: 05 January 2023
Next review due: 05 January 2026

Spondylosis – What we treat “Doctor OST”

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in 40% of cases, spondylosis is diagnosed in people over 40 years old

90% of patients are people over 65 years old
30% of patients get a disability

96% – the proven effectiveness of the treatment of spondylosis in “Doctor OST”!

39,780 patients saved from surgery!

The modern equipment of the center, qualified staff, attentive attitude and individual approach will help not only to get rid of pain, but also to forget about the causes of its occurrence forever.

Do not wait for the vertebrae to grow together; at the first symptoms of spondylosis, consult a doctor. Our neurologist will prescribe treatment according to the author’s scheme “Doctor OST”, which has proven to be highly effective.

Spondylosis (spondylarthrosis) is a dangerous disease of the spine, in which osteophytes are formed on the vertebrae – bone growths. They injure the surrounding tissues, causing a lot of suffering, and can disable a patient in his prime. Doctor OST specialists know how to treat spondylosis. Long-term successful practice proves that spinal spondylosis can be cured without surgical interventions.

DEFORMING SPONDILOSIS: WHO IS AT RISK

It is generally accepted that the disease is directly related to age. Indeed: the older the patient, the greater the likelihood of degenerative-dystrophic changes.

And although age-related changes are the main cause of spondylosis in any part of the spine, the disease is getting younger. Increasingly, a typical picture occurs among patients after 30. According to statistics, men experience the disease 3 times more often than women.

Spondylosis development is promoted by:

• physical inactivity, sedentary lifestyle;
• regularly being in an uncomfortable position, for example, daily work at the computer;
• overweight.
• excessive physical activity, spinal injuries.
• develops against the background of professional injuries and overloads of the spine.
• the disease is a natural complication of scoliosis, osteochondrosis.

HOW DEFORMING SPONDYLOSIS OF THE SPINE APPEARS

It is believed that the spine begins to age after 20 years. The nutrition of tissues is deteriorating, including the cartilaginous tissues of the vertebrae, designed to protect the bones during movement. Posture worsens – the vertebrae are displaced, and this leads to an increase in the load on them when moving. Even light, minor injuries and microcontusions destabilize the spinal column. Bad habits, excess weight, weak muscles, systemic diseases, and even an unsuccessful filling and flat feet are added to the negative factors.

Spondylosis develops as a response to the increased load, aging and wear of the vertebrae. To increase the area of ​​worn vertebrae, the spine “grows” osteophytes.

These bony outgrowths have a good purpose:

• to compensate for the uneven load caused by curvature of the spine;
• to limit mobility, and therefore reduce the risk of injury and stress.

The reverse side of the coin is the narrowing of the intervertebral lumen and the deterioration of blood flow. The situation is aggravated by calcification of the canal, infringement and injury of the nerve root with sharp spikes. Ultimately, fusion and blockade of mobility.

SPONDILOSIS DEGREES

The loss of elasticity of the intervertebral discs and the formation of outgrowths on the vertebrae occurs gradually, in several stages:

• First degree. Thinning discs, barely visible salt deposits in the form of growths that do not extend beyond the vertebrae. Signs of spondylosis of the 1st degree are invisible and are determined only by MRI or X-ray. Infrequent pain is usually associated with fatigue and resolves with rest. Treatment with unique methods of the medical center “Doctor OST” at this stage is most effective;
• Second degree. Pronounced changes in the intervertebral space, osteophytes grow, because of this, pain occurs, which increases with load and takes a long time to pass. The patient feels a serious limitation of mobility, pain when bending and turning.
• Third degree. The most severe picture with fusion of the vertebrae, strong muscle tension and unbearable pain. Further progression leads to disability.

SPONDILOSIS: SYMPTOMS

Treatment usually begins after the appearance of bright symptoms of the 2nd degree.

In addition to pain and stiffness, these are:

• increased muscle tone around the lesion;
• violation of posture;
• numbness of extremities close to the lesion.

In case of cervical localization the patient suffers from:

• headaches;
• “flies” in the eyes;
• visual impairments;
• ringing in the ears;
• pressure drops;
• pain in the arms, impeding their mobility.

Lumbar form:

• pain radiates to the buttocks and legs;
• affects gait;
• reduces sensation in the legs;
• does not allow you to bend over. Thoracic spondylosis of the spine: the symptoms are similar to diseases of the internal organs, and treatment may be late if the diagnosis fails. Patients note:
• prickling behind the breastbone;
• pains like heart, lung or stomach;
• difficulty breathing (difficulty taking a deep breath without pain).

If you experience these symptoms, it is important to immediately see a doctor!

WHO TREATS SPONDILOSIS?

First you need to get a consultation with a neurologist or an orthopedic traumatologist.

For out-of-town patients and patients experiencing difficulties in moving independently, a free remote consultation is provided. Such a consultation makes it possible to get acquainted in advance with possible schemes and prognosis for the treatment of aspondylosis in “Doctor OST”, as well as to receive a list of necessary examinations so that a further visit to the doctor is already as productive as possible.

Right now you can choose a specialist in the treatment of spondylosis from the large team of “Doctor OST” in any of our branches.

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Spondylosis diagnostics

X-ray is the main method for diagnosing spondylosis: the images show a decrease in the height of the vertebral discs, deformation, and the presence of osteophytes. Depending on the degree of development of the disease, these signs progressively increase. However, although the diagnosis of spondylosis does not cause difficulties, difficulties may arise in determining the primary cause of the pathology. In addition to x-rays, the following examinations may be prescribed for this:

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Radiography

X-ray is a common examination of bones and joints, which allows you to instantly obtain information about the state of hard tissues. More

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Analyzes, laboratory tests

In the medical center “Doctor Ost” you can take any tests at an affordable price and get the result quickly. More

Magnetic resonance imaging

MRI can assess soft tissue damage, including ligaments, menisci, joint capsules, and adjacent tissues.

SPONDILOSIS: TREATMENT IN DOCTOR OST

The primary consultation at the medical center “Doctor OST” is carried out by a qualified neurologist. Modern research excludes errors in the diagnosis.

Before treating spinal spondylosis, determine:

• causes that contributed to the growth of osteophytes;
• degree of damage.

If the cause of spondylosis is osteochondrosis of the spine, protrusion or hernia, a comprehensive prescription scheme will take into account the course of the disease and will allow you to get rid of all diagnoses at the same time.

Medical Center “Doctor OST” specializes in non-surgical treatment of the most complex pathologies of the musculoskeletal system.

Regenerative treatment of spondylosis

An alternative to the usual medicines in “Doctor OST” are technologies that stimulate the growth of healthy cells and tissue renewal. In some cases, with severe pathologies, such treatment can even replace surgery.

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Plasmogel Injection

For the first time and only in “Doctor OST”! The latest technology for the treatment of acute pain caused by damage to the musculoskeletal and joint-ligamentous systems. Effect for tomorrow! More

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PRP therapy

PRP Therapy is the latest treatment technique designed to repair damaged tissues with platelet-rich plasma. More

Physiotherapeutic treatment of spondylosis

This direction is preferred in Doctor OST. We have a powerful physiotherapy base at our disposal. Many technologies are completely unique or presented only in a few clinics in Russia.

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Shock wave therapy

The SWT method successfully copes with various diseases of the spine and joints, making it possible to avoid surgical intervention in treatment. More

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Ultrasound therapy

The effect of ultrasound relieves pain, promotes deeper penetration of medicinal substances, and provides a soft micromassage. More

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EPS 8000 Electronic Pain System

It is used to relieve and relieve pain syndromes. More

Why the treatment of spondylosis should be entrusted to DOCTOR OST?

Patient reviews of spondylosis treatment

“Doctor OST” restores the ability to fully move

Valery came to “Doctor OST” with cervical osteochondrosis and numbness of the arm. Half of the prescribed course (traction on the DRX apparatus in combination with VTES procedures) has already been completed, and the man has become much easier.

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Forgot about pain and believed in Russian medicine

Natalia from Kerch, exhausted by chronic pain due to multiple intervertebral hernias, has already lost faith in Russian medicine. On her Instagram page, she made a desperate request to raise funds for treatment abroad. So they learned about the severe patient at the Doctor Ost medical center.

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Valeriy’s review of hernia treatment using the DRX robot

“Once my back was twisted so that I could not get up from the couch. It turned out that there were two vertebral hernias, ”the patient turned to Doctor Ost Medical Center with such a problem.

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I found a place where they really treat

I refused the operation. In the clinic “Doctor OST” she went through all the procedures that the doctor prescribed.

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“Doctor OST” restores the ability to fully move

I have completed half of the course so far, and the treatment has already helped a lot!

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I forgot about the pain and believed in Russian medicine

Doctor Ost saved me from disability and the upcoming spinal surgery.

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Valeriy’s review of hernia treatment on the DRX robot

Piercing pains in the back made it difficult to breathe, but after traction on the DRX robot, it became much easier.

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I found a place where they really heal

The pain in my legs was haunting. They offered an operation, I refused and decided that it was better to contact the “Doctor OST”. I found a place where they really heal.

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How much does it cost?

The treatment of spondylosis in “Doctor OST” is handled by a neurologist. The cost of a specialist consultation is indicated in the “Consultative reception” section of our price list. Follow the promotions, do not miss the best price!

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Treatment of spondylosis can be obtained at the branches of DOCTOR OST:

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Q&A

You asked

After working in the garden, the lower back is taken away, how to get rid of this pain?

Doctor answers:

If after work the lower back hurts more and more often, then you need to be examined and as soon as possible! It is very important not to miss serious pathological changes. For example, a hernia in the lumbar region is a rather formidable disease that can be chained to a wheelchair. Read more

Spondylosis

MATERIAL CHECKED: MAKSIMOVA T. P.
neurologist of the highest category Chelyabinsk

Doctor with over 25 years of experience. He is engaged in the treatment and prevention of pathologies of the brain and spinal cord (CNS), nerve endings (PNS), as well as diseases of the spine and joints that affect the nervous system. In her work, she uses advanced methods of treatment that do not require surgical intervention.
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The reviews provided on the site are not a substitute for the professional advice of a physician and should not serve as a guide to self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Book an appointment or a free online consultation.

Treatment of spondylosis

Spondylosis is a chronic disease, it is still impossible to cure it and completely get rid of the disease. But to reduce pain, to provide a person with an acceptable lifestyle, to slow down the degenerative processes of modern medicine is quite possible. Especially good results will be with early treatment to the doctor.

Treatment of spondylosis has several goals. These are:

• prevention of disease progression;
• improvement of the condition of the cartilage of the intervertebral discs;
• improvement of hemodynamics of the spine and surrounding muscles;
• pain relief;
• limitation of excessive physical activity;
• reduction of irritation of nerve roots by osteophytes;
• strengthening of the muscular corset.

To solve the set tasks, it is necessary to combine as much as possible a whole range of effects from medicinal and physiotherapeutic to surgical. If there are no serious complications and treatment is started in a timely manner, then only conservative therapy is used.

1. Gentle

If acute pain occurs, the doctor may prescribe a sparing regimen up to bed. In the “lying” position, the back muscles relax and the pain in the spine calms down. Doctors in this situation like to repeat the old truth: during an attack, it is better for a patient to lie down for two days than to undergo treatment for a week. But even in the “lying” position, one cannot do without therapeutic exercises and stretching exercises that improve blood circulation and restore trophic processes in the spine. After easing the condition, you can not supercool and overload the spine. Normal physical activity should be reduced with a gradual and very smooth transition into habitual activities.

2. Medicines

Medicines are more of an emergency treatment that helps the patient feel better, but they do not get rid of the cause of the illness. The following drugs are usually prescribed:

• vasodilators that activate metabolism and hemodynamics;
• muscle relaxants – drugs that reduce muscle tone and therefore have a slightly analgesic effect;
• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed for a short course with exacerbation and severe acute pain;
• novocaine paravertebral blockade – rarely used, in cases of extreme pain;
• chondroprotectors – to nourish and regenerate the cartilage of the discs, the drugs of this group have a slow but increasing effect; they slow down degenerative processes and increase the resistance of bone structures, they must be taken for a positive effect in long courses 2 times a year for several years
3. Massage

Warming up the muscles during a back massage can effectively improve blood circulation. Massage should be performed by a good specialist twice a year, in courses of 8-10 sessions. It doesn’t have to be intense. After the massage, there should be a feeling of relaxation and warmth. The main techniques of such a massage are stroking, warming up by rubbing, light kneading. But we must remember that it is the natural tension of the muscles and ligaments that will make them stronger and stronger. In the first place, you must put your own efforts, contact the massage therapist only if you are sure that you will fall into experienced and skillful hands that will not stretch your muscles and ligaments.

4. Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy helps to improve the condition and make you feel better, but it cannot completely get rid of the disease. This includes heating, treatment with waves, sounds, currents, water, cold, etc.

• hirudotherapy – hirudotherapy gives good results, medical leeches stimulate blood circulation in pathological areas and have an excellent acupuncture effect;
• cryotherapy – local cooling has a powerful stimulating effect and reduces swelling of the nerve, the procedure is carried out promptly according to the doctor’s indications;
• magnetic resonance therapy – MBST: a course of treatment helps to relieve swelling and regenerate bone tissue, a unique technique gives excellent results and is considered one of the most promising today;
• laser therapy – safe technology using a laser beam improves local blood circulation, activates absorbable effects;
• electrical stimulation and ultrasound therapy using the Zimmer apparatus, allows you to combine effects on the affected area, in this case, the two-in-one combination gives a pronounced positive effect;
• balneotherapy – bathing sessions last from 10 to 15 minutes, the time spent in a warm bath depends on the composition of the water; according to the doctor’s prescription, salts, herbal preparations are added to it; it is important that the air in the room is warm and there are no drafts, and the patient does not cool down immediately after taking a bath (it is advisable to ensure that the bed is warm, for example, using a heating pad)
5. Traction

Traction of the spine is aimed at decompressing the intervertebral discs, stretching increases the distance between the articulating vertebrae. Any traction is carried out only in the clinic as prescribed by the doctor and under his strict control. Special devices, traction are used. Sometimes traction is performed in water, which reduces the risk of injury. Traction gives a particularly good effect in cervical spondylosis. As an auxiliary method, a cervical collar is used, and in case of a problem in the lower back, a lumbar bandage is used. In a fixed state, the vertebrae rest and return to a physiological state.

6. Therapeutic gymnastics

Proper physical activity strengthens the back, activates muscles and improves microcirculation in the area of ​​the affected disc . Exercises carefully selected by a specialist form and strengthen the muscular corset of the back, forcing even the smallest muscles to work, which can atrophy without training. Scientists have proven that in everyday life only a third of all muscles work constantly. Thanks to therapeutic exercises, you can make the rest of the muscle mass work. As a result, the hemodynamics of the deep skeletal muscles adjacent to the spine is enhanced. But you need to do at least 3 times a week for 40 – 45 minutes. The rhythm of training is selected individually, different approaches are used in their appointment, exercises are performed in a position that provides unloading of the spine.

Example of exercises:

• starting position “on the back”, stretch the arms behind the head, bend the legs at the knees at an angle of 90 degrees, slowly raise them to the chest, but do not press them close; repeat 10-15 times;
• starting position “on the back”, spread the arms to the sides, bend one leg at the knee, keeping the feet on the floor, smoothly raise the other leg up; the angle of elevation can be small, hold the leg for a few seconds and slowly lower; repeat the exercise 10-15 times, repeat with the opposite leg;
• starting position “on the back”, spread the arms to the sides, put the heel of the right foot on the fingers of the left; turn the legs to the left, and the head and torso to the right; repeat the same with the opposite leg;
• starting position “on the back”, spread the arms to the sides, place the right foot on the knee of the left leg, turn the body to the left, and head to the right, repeat with the opposite leg;
• starting position – emphasis on knees and extended arms, slowly arch your back, stretching up and down;
• sitting on the floor, bend to the outstretched legs and reach your toes with your hands, sit for 1-2 minutes, focusing on calm breathing

Repeat each exercise 10-15 times.