Spondylosis: Causes, Prevention and Treatment

What causes spondylosis? 

• If you have a high BMI, this can put an increased level of strain on your spine, which may lead to quicker and further deterioration of the spine.
• If you smoke, it can dehydrate the discs in your spine, causing more wear and tear and potentially leading to spondylosis. 

Can you prevent spondylosis? 

• Regular Exercise – As hard as it can sometimes be to get to the gym, exercise is key to maintaining good general health. Weightlifting can also help to increase bone density.

• Stretching Often – Stretching can help reduce any pressure placed on your spine from tension. Try to stretch every morning and regularly throughout the day.

• Balanced Diet – You may be tired of hearing this one, but a balanced diet is necessary to a healthy life. Not only that, getting the vitamins your body needs helps look after your bone and can help your body to withstand wear and tear better.

Can spondylosis be treated?

• Physical Therapy – This treatment method helps to build back muscles and increase flexibility. Increased strength in the back can help decrease the pain caused by spondylosis.

• Acupuncture – Often used to relieve back and neck pain, acupuncture involves inserting tiny needles into parts of the body in an effort to reduce the discomfort caused by spondylosis. 

• Lifestyle Changes – As mentioned above, lifestyle changes such as losing weight and eating more nutritious food can help to improve spinal health. After a spondylosis diagnosis, it is especially important to maintain these positive habits.