What Is Spinal Degeneration?
Spinal degeneration is a condition in which the bones and joints of the spine deteriorate, affecting the structure and function of the spine. The condition typically causes damage to cartilage, subchondral bone, and joint fluid. In particular, lumbar spine degeneration refers to the deterioration of the discs and joints, along with bone growth on the vertebrae. Degeneration can occur in different areas, such as the spinous processes and the upper/lower lumbar spine.
Specifically, spinal degeneration usually begins with the gradual loss of mucus (water) content in the discs between the vertebrae, causing them to become less elastic and less resilient. This can lead to the formation of bone spurs (spondylosis), increasing pressure on the vertebrae and surrounding nerves. Common symptoms include pain in the neck, back, or thighs, especially after long periods of sitting or standing.
In addition, spinal degeneration can lead to other issues such as cervical spondylosis or lumbar spondylosis, causing joint swelling, reduced flexibility, and even impairment of basic function.
Symptoms of Spinal Degeneration
Spinal degeneration is caused not only by age and the natural aging process of the bones and joints; when a patient experiences symptoms for a long period that then disappear, or when symptoms recur only with movement or activity, they should seek examination as soon as possible.
The most common symptoms include: joint stiffness and mild pain that worsens after periods of inactivity or limited movement, such as sitting for too long. More severe symptoms include:
Weakness in the arms or legs
Poor coordination between the arms and legs
Muscle spasms and pain
Headache
Loss of balance and difficulty moving
Loss of bladder or bowel control
Causes of Spinal Degeneration
Spinal degeneration is caused by the joint cartilage and discs being subjected to significant pressure over a long period. This results in damage to the cartilage and the bone beneath it, reduced or lost disc elasticity, and stiffening of the ligaments. Risk factors that vary from person to person and can lead to spinal degeneration include:
A family history of spinal degeneration.
Obesity or being overweight.
A sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise.
A history of spinal injury or spinal surgery.
Smoking.
Occupations that require repeating the same movements many times, increasing pressure on the spine.
Mental health issues such as anxiety or depression.
Psoriatic arthritis.
To treat and manage spinal degeneration, patients typically need to follow measures such as physical exercise, lifestyle changes, pain medication, and, when necessary, surgical methods. Most importantly, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, particularly maintaining an ideal body weight, helps reduce pressure on the spine and lower the risk of developing spinal degeneration.