Lumbar Spondylosis

Lumbar spondylosis describes changes in the lower spine that can cause back pain, stiffness and sometimes nerve-related symptoms.

Lumbar spondylosis, also called spinal osteoarthritis or arthritis of the lower back, involves changes in the discs, small facet joints, ligaments and vertebral bones. Discs may lose height or flexibility, while joints and bone edges can remodel. These findings are common with ageing, but symptoms depend on which structures are affected and how they influence movement or nearby nerves.

Lower back pain is a common presentation of lumbar spondylosis and may feel aching, stiff or worse after standing, bending or prolonged sitting. Some people notice reduced flexibility, muscle spasm or pain into the buttock. Numbness, tingling or weakness in a leg can suggest nerve involvement and deserves clinical assessment. Read more about [Back Pain](/symptoms/back-pain/) and [Lower Back Pain](/symptoms/lower-back-pain/).

Repeated loading and the normal ageing process can alter discs and facet joints. A disc may become less hydrated and less able to distribute force; facet joints may become irritated as movement and load change. This condition can coexist with [Degenerative Disc Disease](/conditions/degenerative-disc-disease/), [Sciatica](/conditions/sciatica/) or [Spinal Stenosis](/conditions/spinal-stenosis/), but these are not interchangeable diagnoses.

Pain can settle and flare with activity, posture, stress, sleep or a separate strain. Images may show spinal changes without causing symptoms, and symptoms can be significant without a dramatic image finding. New bowel or bladder difficulty, numbness around the saddle area, or worsening leg weakness requires urgent medical care.

Risk is shaped by age, previous back injury, physically demanding work, repeated lifting, prolonged static postures and low trunk or hip strength. Smoking and some health conditions can affect disc health. A risk factor increases the need for sensible prevention and assessment; it does not prove that spinal changes are causing pain.

The clinician reviews pain location, triggers, duration, walking tolerance and any leg symptoms. Examination may include spinal movement, posture, reflexes, sensation, muscle power and walking. X-rays can show bone and joint changes; MRI is considered when nerve symptoms, significant injury or another explanation needs closer evaluation.

Care usually starts with staying gently active and restoring movement rather than prolonged bed rest. [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) can target trunk, hip and leg strength, mobility and lifting technique. An [Anti-Inflammatory Medication](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/anti-inflammatory-medication/) may suit some people after a safety review. Persistent, selected pain may prompt discussion of [Facet Joint Injection](/treatments/spine-care/facet-joint-injection/) or [Radiofrequency Ablation](/treatments/spine-care/radiofrequency-ablation/).

Change position regularly, use a hip hinge for lifting and build exercise gradually. Short walks or other comfortable activities can be easier than one long session. During a flare, reduce aggravating load while continuing gentle movement. Keep a record of leg symptoms, walking changes and activities that help or worsen pain.

Changes around the spine can narrow spaces used by nerve roots, producing radiating pain, tingling, numbness or weakness. Persistent weakness, frequent falls or declining walking ability needs prompt review. Emergency assessment is needed for new bladder or bowel control problems or numbness in the saddle region.

Protect your back with regular strengthening, varied movement, safe lifting habits and sensible progression of work or sport. Avoid staying in one posture for long periods. Address smoking, sleep and general fitness with appropriate support, and seek assessment after an injury that does not settle.

A primary clinician, orthopedist, spine specialist or physiotherapist can help when pain limits work, sleep, walking or exercise. Specialist input is particularly useful for leg weakness, persistent nerve symptoms, repeated flares or uncertainty about the diagnosis. Take previous scans and a clear description of functional changes to the appointment.