Lumbar Spondylosis 

Degeneration of the lumbar spine over time causes the spaces between the vertebral bodies (back bones) to narrow. This is called lumbar spondylosis. 

When we are young adults the intervertebral discs are at their fullest, over time they shrink and the disc height reduces. The vertebrae come closer together and the vertebral joints become stiffer as the ligaments shorten. The resultant proximity of the vertebral bodies causes the body to respond by increasing the surface area of the joint ends by laying down new bone along the edges of the joints. These projections of new bone are called osteophytes and they are often responsible for nerve root compression.

These changes can lead to other lumbar conditions such as foraminal stenosis. This condition is characterised by a narrowing of the tunnels through which the spinal nerves exit. As these openings reduce in size the spinal nerves can become compressed leading to back pain that can radiate down the legs. It can also lead to sensory changes such as pins and needles and numbness in the leg or foot and sometimes muscle weakness in the leg muscles.

Joints that interlink at the back of the spine are called facet joints. These joints can also be a source of pain especially in backward bending movements (extension), prolonged standing or lying prone. They can be damaged acutely, either from a fall or a sudden forceful extension movement, or gradually over time. The process of lumbar spondylosis can cause an increased compression of the facet joints as the vertebrae come closer together. This can lead to arthritis and degeneration of the joints leading to pain, swelling and inflammation.