WHAT IS SPONDYLOSIS?

Age-related degeneration of the spinal discs and joints is known as spondylosis. The cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) regions of the spine are most frequently affected. Degenerative arthritic changes in the spine, or simply arthritis, are also referred to as spondylosis.

Similar to the onset of grey hair, most degenerative changes in the spine are a natural part of ageing. These changes most often occur in the vertebral body and nerve root openings. Spondylosis is a form of arthritis caused by spinal degeneration. It occurs when bone spurs develop on the spine, discs and joints deteriorate, or both. These changes can affect the mobility of the spine, nerves, and other systems.

CAUSES

Ayurveda the Ancient Science of life deals with physical, mental and spiritual health of mankind. It aims to preserve the health of healthy persons and cure the diseases of the patient. Signs and symptoms mentioned in Ayurveda includes:

  • Cervical (neck)
  • Thoracic (upper, mid back)
  • Lumbar (low back)
  • Lumbosacral (low back/sacrum)
  • Degenerative disc disease: degeneration and decreased shock absorption result from the intervertebral discs' loss of flexibility and moisture as we age.
  • Osteoarthritis: As the cartilage that surrounds the spine's joints degrades over time, stiffness, discomfort, and inflammation may result.
  • Osteophytes: Osteophytes, or bone spurs, are formed by the body in response to disc degeneration in order to maintain the spine. These growths can encroach on nerves and cause discomfort.
  • Genetics: The chance of getting spondylosis may be increased by a family history of spinal disorders.
  • Previous Injuries: Fractures and strains are examples of past spine injuries that might hasten degeneration.
  • Recurrent strain: Work and hobbies that require a lot of lifting, twisting, or sitting for a long period of time can cause wear and tear on the spine.
  • Improper Posture:: Prolonged incorrect posture can increase spinal tension and cause early degeneration.
  • Obesity: Carrying too much weight may worsen degenerative processes and put more strain on the spine.
  • Smoking: Smoking can accelerate the degeneration of the spinal discs by reducing blood supply and nourishment to them.
  • Inflammatory Conditions: A number of diseases, including ankylosing spondylitis and rheumatoid arthritis, can have an impact on spinal health.
  • Spinal stenosis: It refers to the narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck, which can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, causing symptoms like pain, numbness, and weakness
  • Herniated disc: A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc protrudes through its outer layer. In the cervical region, this can result in compression of nearby nerves, leading to symptoms such as pain, tingling, and weakness.
  • Radiculopathy: Radiculopathy refers to the compression or irritation of nerve roots in the cervical spine. It can cause radiating pain, numbness, and weakness that may extend into the arms and hands.

TYPES

  • Cervical Spondylosis: Headaches, especially toward the back of the head. Difficulty synchronizing or maintaining the state of equilibrium. Stiffness or pain in the shoulders
  • Lumbar Spondylosis: Pain that becomes worse when you sit or stand for extended periods of time but gets better when you move or do other activities. Symptoms similar to sciatica, such as a severe pain that radiates down the leg.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

  • Pain: Constant discomfort in the lower back (lumbar spondylosis) or neck (cervical spondylosis), which may get worse when you move or adopt specific positions. If bone spurs or herniated discs compress nerve roots, it can result in numbness or tingling in the arms or legs.
  • Stiffness: decreased mobility and stiffness in the afflicted region, especially in the morning or after long periods of inactivity.
  • Weakness: Arm or leg muscle weakness, particularly in cases of severe nerve compression. Pain that radiates from the neck down into the arms, shoulders, or legs, or from the lower back, is referred to as radiating pain.
  • Spasms in the muscles: contractions of the back muscles that are not voluntary.
  • Decreased Motion Range: Having trouble bending the back or rotating the head also may be there if the condition remained for a long period of time.
  • Back Pain: persistent pain, either mild or acute, in the middle of the back. Discomfort that gets worse when you move, maintain particular positions, or spend a lot of time standing or sitting motionless.
  • Tingling or numbness: sensations of tingling or numbness in the upper abdomen, ribs, or chest when nerves are compressed.
  • Radiating pain: pain that might spread to the arms, shoulders, or stomach.
  • Weakness of Muscle: weakness in the arms, shoulders, or upper back muscles.
  • Breathing difficulties: Thoracic spondylosis can occasionally make deep breathing or activities requiring greater chest expansion uncomfortable.
  • Fatigue: overall exhaustion brought on by pain or disturbed sleep habits.

TREATMENTS AT SANJEEVANAM

In Ayurveda, there are various diseases namely Greevagraham, Viswachi, Grudhrasi, Khalwi, Katigraham etc. which can be correlated to spondylosis of different regions of spine.
The symptoms include pain with radiation in certain cases, stiffness, paresthesias, etc. Most of the symptoms can be attributed to vitiate Vata with occasional involvement of Kapha or Pitta, from person to person. The treatment modalities involved are Snehana and Swedana which helps in relieving the inflammation, toning and strengthening of paravertebral muscles. In case of obese people, weight management is another major area which is to be taken care of along with the symptoms of spondylosis. Along with these treatments paravertebral muscle strengthening exercises and yoga practices are equally important to improve spinal flexibility, build strength and endurance. Postural corrections and certain lifestyle modifications are also incorporated in the management of spondylosis to prevent pain flare ups. Some of the familiar treatments include:

  • Rooksha Swedam
  • Choorna Pinda Swedam
  • Pathra Pinda Swedam/ IlakizhI
  • Kayasekam
  • Rooksha Swedam
  • Greeva Vasthi
  • Kati Vasthi
  • Maatra Vasthi
  • Nirooha Vasthi
  • Vaitharana Vasti

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