Symptoms. Lumbar Spondylosis: Lower Back Pain

Lumbar Spondylosis Symptoms

Lumbar spondylosis symptoms include pain in a localized area, typically in the lower or lumbar region of the back. If a ruptured disc is pinching or compressing a nerve, the pain may radiate into the leg. For instance, a herniation in a disc of the lumbar spine may cause pressure on a nerve resulting in lower back pain that shoots down one leg and travels into the foot. This condition is known as sciatica.

Back pain caused by a disc herniation is usually made worse by prolonged sitting, standing, and bending forward. However, it is often relieved by walking and frequent changes in position.

Back pain as a symptom of lumbar spondylosis caused by facet joint osteoarthritis is usually worse with standing and walking and is relieved by bending forward.

When a nerve is pinched, numbness and tingling result. When a nerve is severely compressed, muscle weakness may result in the affected leg and foot.

If spinal stenosis is severe and the spinal cord is compressed, myelopathy (injury to the spinal cord) can occur. Symptoms of lumbar myelopathy include numbness, pain, and weakness in the lower back and leg. Gait disturbances can also result due to problems with balance and coordination.

Lumbar Spondylosis Diagnosis

In addition to a physical examination, the doctor may prescribe imaging tests to diagnose lumbar spondylosis. These may include:

• X-rays: X-rays can reveal osteophytes in the spine, thickening in the joints, and narrowing in the disc spaces.
• Computerized Tomography (CT) Scan: CT scans produce more detailed images of the spine. These can be used to diagnose lumbar spondylosis and other disorders that may not be seen on standard X-ray films.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI scans are costly, but they can show the spine in the greatest detail, including the soft tissues and the intervertebral discs, the nerves and ligaments, and may be used to diagnose lumbar spondylosis.

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