- Lower Back Pain: Persistent lower back pain, often as dull, aching, or throbbing, and may worsen with certain movements, such as bending, lifting, or prolonged sitting.
- Stiffness in the Spine and loss of flexibility: Stiffness can make it difficult to move freely, especially after long periods of inactivity, such as sleeping or sitting. Movement may become more restricted.
- Numbness and Tingling: Compression of the nerves in the lower back can lead to sensations of numbness, tingling, or a "pins and needles" feeling in the legs, feet, or buttocks.
- Muscle Weakness: It can cause weakness in the legs, making it difficult to walk, stand, or climb stairs.
- Radiating Pain (Sciatica): When the nerves in the lower spine become compressed or irritated, the pain can radiate down the legs, a condition known as sciatica.
- Changes in Posture: Chronic pain and stiffness in the lower back can lead to changes in posture. People with lumbar spondylosis may adopt a hunched or stooped posture to reduce pain or pressure on the spine.
- Pain with Prolonged Sitting or Standing: Pain intensifies after sitting for an extended time or standing in one position, leading them to frequently shift positions for relief.
- Difficulty Walking or Bending: It can make walking or bending painful. Some individuals may experience difficulty walking for long distances or performing activities like bending over to tie shoes due to discomfort or weakness in the lower back.
- Chronic Pain Episodes: While lumbar spondylosis can cause persistent low-level discomfort, individuals may experience flare-ups where the pain becomes more intense. These episodes can last for hours or even days, affecting quality of life and mobility.
- Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control: In rare cases, it can lead to loss of bladder or bowel control.