Spondylosis

Spondylosis is an umbrella term that can describe any type of spinal pain that is caused by degeneration, including degenerative disc disease, degenerative arthritis, and cervical arthritis.

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Causes of spondylosis

As we age, our tissues slowly break down, which can lead to stiffening in the spine and pain. The older we get, the more likely these conditions are to develop or worsen.

Treatment

Treatment for spondylosis depends on the type and severity of pain. Our goal in prescribing treatment is to relieve your pain, help you maintain your level of activity as much as possible, and prevent permanent damage to your spine and nerves.

1 / At-home treatment

Depending on the severity of your pain and spinal degeneration, you may be able to relieve your pain at home by applying ice and heat to the area, taking over-the-counter pain medications, or stretching.

2 / Conservative treatment

Your primary care doctor may offer conservative options to treat your pain, including prescription medications, physical therapy, corticosteroids, muscle relaxants, or other therapies (like traction therapy).

3 / Surgical treatment

If other treatments fail or if your neurological symptoms (like arm and leg weakness) worsen, your primary care doctor may recommend surgery.

The type of surgery you undergo may vary depending on what's causing your spondylosis. Our specialists will help you decide which treatment option(s) will best meet your needs.

Prevention

In most cases, spondylosis develops as we age and our bodies begin to break down. Because of this, there is no way to completely prevent spondylosis, but you can take steps to keep your spine healthy and possibly lower your risk of developing severe conditions.

Eat healthy foods. To keep you bones strong, make sure your diet includes foods that are rich in calcium.
Maintain good posture.
Maintain a healthy weight. Alongside your primary care doctor, you can create a plan for eating and physical activity that allows you to reach and maintain a healthy weight for your body.
Quit or avoid using tobacco products (including vaping). Nicotine lowers the supply of blood to your bones, which can weaken your spine.
Stay active. Core strength and flexibility can keep your spine strong and healthy.

Why choose University of Utah Neurosurgery Spine Group?

We are the destination for complex spine patients in the Mountain West. Our spine surgeons perform a high volume of procedures each year, and are both experienced and successful. We also publish our research findings for other physicians and surgeons to learn.

With the University of Utah Health Neurosurgery Spine Group, you will receive care from an experienced team of experts who are national leaders in spine surgery and train residents, fellows, and other physicians.