While many individuals with spondylosis do not experience symptoms, those who do may notice the following:

• Stiffness in the Neck and Back: A common early symptom, often worse after periods of inactivity or upon waking in the morning.
• Pain in the Arms and Shoulders: If the degeneration affects the cervical spine, pain can radiate to the arms and shoulders. Similarly, lumbar spondylosis can cause pain in the lower back and legs.
• Difficulty Moving the Neck and Back: Limited range of motion due to stiffness and pain can make it challenging to perform daily activities.
• Headaches and Dizziness: Cervical spondylosis can lead to headaches, often originating from the neck, and sometimes dizziness.
• Advanced Symptoms: Cervical Myelopathy in more severe cases, spondylosis can progress to cervical myelopathy, a condition where the spinal cord is compressed.

Symptoms of cervical myelopathy include:

• Numbness and Tingling in the Limbs: These sensations occur when nerves are pinched by bone spurs or other degenerative changes.
• Loss of Bladder and Bowel Control: Cauda Equina Syndrome, a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention, can result in incontinence and loss of bowel control.
• Lack of Coordination: Difficulty performing fine motor tasks, such as buttoning a shirt or writing, due to impaired hand coordination.
• Difficulty Walking: Unsteady gait and trouble with balance can make walking challenging.
• Weakness in Hands and Foot Muscles: Muscle weakness can result from nerve compression, affecting grip strength and the ability to lift the foot.

Spondylosis is primarily caused by age-related wear and tear, but several factors can contribute to its development:

• Aging: The most significant factor, as the discs and joints in the spine naturally degenerate over time.
• Genetics: A family history of spine disorders can increase the risk of developing spondylosis.
• Repetitive Strain: Occupational or lifestyle activities that involve repetitive spinal movements can accelerate degeneration.
• Injury: Previous spine injuries can lead to accelerated wear and tear.
• Obesity: Excess body weight increases the load on the spine, promoting faster degeneration.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of regular exercise can weaken the muscles supporting the spine, contributing to spondylosis.

Conclusion
Spondylosis is a widespread condition that often remains unnoticed until symptoms develop due to nerve compression or other complications. Understanding the symptoms and potential progression of spondylosis is crucial for timely diagnosis and management. If you experience persistent stiffness, pain, or any advanced symptoms, seeking medical advice is essential for effective treatment. At VerteCare-Nx, we specialize in diagnosing and managing spine-related conditions, offering personalized care to help you maintain spinal health and overall well-being.

Spondylosis cannot be cured but milder cases can be managed with conservative treatment which includes:

• Medication
• Physical therapy
• Spinal Decompression using Vax-D treatment

Advanced pain management involves:

• Surgery: Only recommended in cases not responding to conservative management and / or having neurological deficit