Lumbar spondylosis is a disease which affects an individual in the later life. The lumbar spine carries most of the weight of the body. When an individual reaches a ripe age the lumbar discs and associated ligaments undergo aging which result in the frequent narrowing of the disc spaces. Thickening of the ligaments that surround the disc and those that surround the facet joints develops. This ligamentous thickening eventually is calcified. Compromise of the spinal canal or of the openings through which the spinal nerves leave the spinal canal can occur.
Various Causes of Lumbar Spondylosis
The causes of lumbar spondylosis can be identified with a wide assortment of factors. The major factors that are held responsible for the development of lumbar spondylosis can be concluded as old age, obesity, prior injury, heredity and slippage of one vertebra on another.
The degenerative changes within the intervertebral discs are also the causes of lumbar spondylosis. In the body, the soft, elastic material dries out and loses height. Thickening of the ligaments that surround the disc occurs. In addition to that alterations of the alignment of the joints that connect the back of the spine are also seen. Other ligaments undergo further degenerative changes, thickening and potential chemical change. All these symptoms occur when an individual experiences old age. Lumbar spondylosis emerges to be a non-specific aging phenomenon.
As a person ages, the healing ability of the body decreases and developing arthritis at that time makes the disease progress faster. It is seen that persons reaching over 40 years of age are more prone to developing lumbar spondylosis.
Excessive weight also plays a foremost role in causing lumbar spondylosis. Overweight puts excess load on the joints as the lumbar region carries most of the body"s weight, making a person prone to lumbar spondylosis.
Other factors such as sitting in one position for prolonged time puts pressure on the lumbar vertebrae and highlight the risk of developing the disease.
Lumbar spondylosis can be treated in various ways. In addition to the appropriate diagnosis, it can also be by treated by Yogic Asanas such as Bhujangasana, Salabhasana as well as Surya Namaskara. Changing and improving one"s lifestyle such as doing regular exercise, giving up smoking, modifying work habits can also help. However, it is advisable to consult the doctor before following any particular regime.
