Your spine is a column made of 33 bones called vertebrae. Cushion-like pads called discs are tucked between most vertebrae, which protects the spine and makes it flexible. And within this column of vertebrae lies the spinal cord. Vertebrae are connected by facet joints, which are the victims in spondylosis.

A general term for age-related wear and tear of the spinal discs. Spondylosis is common and worsens with age. This condition is often used to describe degenerative arthritis (osteoarthritis) of the spine.

Cervical and Lumber Spondylosis is a general term for age-related wear and tear affecting the spinal disks in your neck and back. As the disks dehydrate and shrink, signs of osteoarthritis develop, including bony projections along the edges of bones (bone spurs).

Technically, spondylosis is a form of arthritis—spinal osteoarthritis (osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis) to be exact. We tend to think of arthritis as something you get in your hands and knees, but the spine, and all of its bones and joints, can fall victim to its grip as well. And yes, while it’s most likely to affect people in the 60+ range, patients typically report their first symptoms between the ages of 20 and 50 years. spinal osteoarthritis may affect as many as 75% of everyone over the age of 60.

Spondylosis is common, but it is usually not serious. Many who have it experience no pain, though it can be painful for some. Most patients with spinal osteoarthritis will not need surgery. However, it is a degenerative condition that may worsen as a person grows older, and can affect any region of the spine, including:
– Cervical — neck
– Thoracic — upper, mid-back
– Lumbar — low back
– Lumbosacral — low back/sacrum