Degenerative Lumbar Spine Disorders

Degenerative lumbar spine disorders refer to a group of conditions resulting from the natural aging process and wear and tear of the lower back. These disorders include lumbar spondylosis, degenerative disc disease, facet joint arthritis, and spinal stenosis. Over time, intervertebral discs lose water content and elasticity, leading to reduced shock absorption and possible disc herniation. Facet joints may also undergo arthritic changes, causing pain and stiffness. In advanced cases, narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis) can compress nerve roots, leading to symptoms such as lower back pain, radiating leg pain (sciatica), numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness. Risk factors include aging, genetics, obesity, poor posture, and a sedentary lifestyle. Treatment options range from conservative measures like physical therapy, pain medications, and lifestyle modifications to interventional procedures such as epidural steroid injections or surgical options like decompression and spinal fusion.

  • Definition: Age-related degeneration of the lumbar spine structures.

  • Common Conditions: Lumbar spondylosis, degenerative disc disease, facet joint arthritis, spinal stenosis.

  • Pathophysiology: Disc dehydration, loss of elasticity, facet joint degeneration, and spinal canal narrowing.

  • Symptoms: Lower back pain, radiating leg pain (sciatica), numbness, tingling, weakness, and stiffness.

  • Risk Factors: Aging, genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, repetitive strain, and poor posture.

  • Diagnosis: Clinical examination, X-ray, MRI, and CT scan.

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