Spondylosis

There are several possible reasons why someone may develop arthritis in the spine, including:

• Herniated Discs: If someone has a history of one or more herniated discs, they are at risk of developing arthritis in the spine. A herniated disc develops when one of the disks in the spine ruptures. This can cause the vertebrae to rub against each other, leading to inflammation and arthritis.
• Degenerative Discs: Someone can also be diagnosed with degenerative discs. The discs are filled with fluid that creates a cushion between the vertebrae. When the discs degenerate, the vertebrae can rub against each other, leading to arthritis.
• Bone Spurs: Bone spurs can also lead to the development of this condition. Bone spurs can cause inflammation, causing them to rub against different portions of the spine. This can lead to arthritis.

There are several steps involved in the diagnosis of spondylosis. During the initial consultation with your doctor, a detailed medical history as well as comprehensive physical exam is completed to better understand your specific time-line and triggers of pain.

Once the exam has been completed, your doctor could order imaging scans to take a closer look at the vertebrae and spinal discs. Imaging is key for the proper diagnosis of spondylosis often including x-rays taken of the affected area. And if further evaluation is needed, CT and MRI scans may be ordered.

There are a few ways that individuals can prevent arthritis from developing in the spine. Some of the most important preventative techniques that people need to know include:

• Avoid High-Impact Exercise: People who perform high-impact exercise are at a greater risk of developing the condition. What this means is that if there is a lot of pounding on the feet and knees, this can be transferred to the spine, leading to arthritis.
• Maintain Neck Range of Motion: People also need to maintain a solid range of motion in the neck. There are exercises that people can perform that can increase the range of motion in the neck, reducing the chances of developing arthritis. For example, even rotating the head from side to side a few times a day can improve the range of motion.
• Avoid Smoking: People also need to make sure they avoid smoking. Smoking is one of the most important risk factors for the development of spondylosis, and people who avoid smoking will be at a lower risk of developing this condition.

These simple changes can reduce someone’s chances of developing arthritis of the spine.

At Virginia Spine Institute, our spine specialists have an unparalleled level of experience working with patients who suffer from spondylosis. Through out patient-centered, all under one roof model, we are able to provide an elevated level of care in a comprehensive environment for healing. As the largest specialized spine center in the DC-metro region, Virginia Spine Institute is able to provide treatments that other physicians haven’t offered to their patients, all while making it a personalized experience. Because no two journeys are the same, each patient receives the individualized time and attention necessary to properly diagnose and create a treatment plan to achieve their goals for recovery. By selecting this team of specialists, patients have access to cutting-edge, modern treatment options that are not offered elsewhere.