Lumbar Spondylosis Treatment
Treatment for lower back spine degeneration.
Lumbar spondylosis is age-related degeneration of the discs and joints in the lower back, a very common finding as people age. Like its counterpart in the neck, most people with lumbar spondylosis on imaging have mild or manageable symptoms, and treatment is guided by how significant the actual symptoms are rather than the imaging findings alone.
Types
Lumbar Spondylosis without Radiculopathy
Degeneration causing lower back pain and stiffness without nerve involvement.
Lumbar Radiculopathy (Sciatica)
Degeneration causing a lower back nerve root to become compressed, leading to pain radiating down the leg.
Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back, often causing leg pain that worsens with walking.
Common Causes
Lumbar spondylosis develops as the discs and facet joints of the lower back naturally degenerate with age and cumulative mechanical stress.
- Age-related disc degeneration in the lumbar spine.
- Bone spur formation narrowing the space around nerves over time.
- Repetitive mechanical strain from certain occupations or activities.
- Previous lower back injury accelerating localised degeneration.
- Excess body weight increasing mechanical load on the lower spine.
Signs and Symptoms
- Lower back pain and stiffness, often worse after prolonged sitting or standing
- Pain radiating down one or both legs, commonly known as sciatica
- Leg pain or cramping that worsens with walking and eases with rest, in spinal stenosis
- Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
- Reduced flexibility in the lower back
Diagnosis
Diagnosis combines a physical examination testing nerve function in the legs with X-rays and, when nerve symptoms are present, an MRI to identify exactly which level and nerve is affected.
Treatment Approach
Most cases improve with physiotherapy, activity modification, and pain management. Cases with significant nerve compression causing persistent leg symptoms, or spinal stenosis significantly limiting walking distance, may benefit from surgical decompression. Dr. K. G. Gopalakrishna assesses the specific pattern of symptoms and nerve involvement before recommending the appropriate treatment path.
Please note: This page is for general information only and does not replace a proper medical evaluation. Every case is different, and the underlying cause of your symptoms may not match what is described here. Please do not use this page to self-diagnose - consult Dr. K. G. Gopalakrishna or another qualified orthopaedic specialist for an accurate diagnosis specific to you.
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Last reviewed: August 2026