Spondylosis is a degenerative condition in which the supportive disks in your spine begin to deteriorate. This generally occurs as you age and can lead to painful symptoms. However, through the use of a proper physical therapy program, these symptoms can be treated and further damage can be prevented.
Spondylosis
Spondylosis is the deterioration and narrowing of the disks between your vertebrae. These disc are composed of cartilage. As you age, your cartilage becomes thinner and more fragile. This leads to a gradual deterioration of your disks and joints known as spondylosis, or degenerative disk disease. It usually occurs in older patients. The symptoms of spondylosis may vary depending on the part of the spine that is affected. They usually include local pain in the affected area; tingling or weakness in your arms, hands, legs or feet; lack of coordination; and headaches.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is often the first, and sometimes only needed, treatment option for spondylosis. Your rehabilitation should be supervised by a professional physical therapist. Your therapy will be comprised of two parts: active and passive treatment. Passive treatment will help alleviate acute pain. Your body stays relaxed during passive treatment. Eventually, your therapy will move to active treatment, which will strengthen your body to better support your spine.
Passive Treatment
Passive treatments are often used to help relieve some of the pain that comes from spondylosis. These can include deep tissue massage, hot and cold therapy, and electrical stimulation. Massage uses direct pressure and friction to try to release the tension in your soft tissues. You should alternate between hot and cold therapy. Heat helps get more blood to the affected area because an increased blood flow brings more oxygen and nutrients, helping to heal the injury. Cold therapy helps slow circulation, helping to prevent swelling. Electrical stimulation sends a safe amount of electrical current to reduce muscle spasms and alleviate pain.
Active Treatment
Active treatment will focus on improving your flexibility, strength, core stability and range of motion. This program will be individualized based on your age, injury and overall health. It should include a range of motion exercises to keep your joints moving properly, and strengthening exercises to help build your muscles that support your spine. You should also do cardiovascular work during this time. Exercise can help you lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, putting less pressure --- and pain --- on your joints.
