Fact Checked
Lumbar spondylosis is an age-related condition which causes degeneration in the joints of the lumbar vertebrae or the lower back. This area is susceptible to become damaged because the lower back function in supporting the upright posture and different kinds of bending and twisting movements and it supports a large amount of body weight.
Symptoms of lumbar spondylosis
- Disturbance of sleep due to pain
- Pain can be felt in the lower back, in the buttock or leg
- Limited movement in the back especially in the morning and after resting for long periods
- Pins and needles sensations or loss of sensation in the foot or leg
- When the condition worsens, there is severe weakness in the foot or leg
- Stiffness of the back especially in the morning
Causes
- Lack of ergonomic care especially people working in front of computers, driving and traveling. Ergonomic care is high quality aids and supporting appliances that help with the condition.
- Repeated strains or injuries on the affected area
- People with ages above 40 years old are susceptible to develop this condition.
Treatment
- Apply an ice pack on the affected area for at least 20 minutes to lessen the pain and the swelling. Wrap ice using a towel or a piece of cloth before placing to the area to prevent ice burn and worsen the condition. Avoid ice directly on the skin.
- After a few days of applying ice, apply heat in the affected area in the form of a heat pack to increase flow of blood in the area and lessen the pain. Another alternative is soaking a towel in hot water, wring out excess water and apply the towel to the area is also good for the condition.
- Taking a hot bath or a hot water shower on the affected area for at least 10-15 minutes will relieve of the pain.
- Applying alternately cold and hot therapy on the affected area is good for the condition rather than using either of the two.
- Massage the area to lessen the muscle tension and the pain. Use the prescribed back rub creams and ointment for better relief.
- Sleep on a hard bed with a firm and comfortable mattress. Use the correct pillow, the spine should be in straight position from the head to the pelvic area. Avoid bending the area.
- Avoid sleeping on the stomach to prevent further straining the back and worsen the condition.
- Maintain proper posture to lessen stress placed on the back and feel comfortable. Sit upright and place some support by placing a cushion in the lower back.
- Take the prescribed over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen, aspirin, acetaminophen and naproxen to lessen the pain and the symptoms.
Tips
- Perform regular exercises every day.
- Quit smoking and consumption of alcohol
- Use the proper techniques in lifting
- Get plenty of rest and sleep
- Maintain good posture
- Lose some weight if overweight
- Eat a healthy diet and nutritious foods
More Information
The details posted on this page on lumbar spondylosis is for learning purposes only. To learn to recognize and manage this back condition, enroll in a first aid course with one of our training providers.