It’s not as hard as you might think. The therapists at ANSSI can assist you if you are curious or have been diagnosed with one of these conditions! What do these terms imply? Every condition begins with the prefix “spondy.” It refers to the spinal column or vertebrae. Something is wrong with your spine if any of these conditions were observed. However, these conditions can be treated conservatively, so don’t worry!
First, let’s examine the difference between three “spondy” conditions:
Spondylosis:
It relates to a stress fracture defect in the pars interarticularis of the vertebrae, which is typically located in the L4/L5 region. This is typically brought on by strenuous activities that require excessive twisting, rotation, or back bending, which result in repetitive stress or trauma to the lumbar spine (for example – football, dancing, gymnastics, and wrestling.) Initial symptoms may or may not be present; however, as the injury progresses, these individuals may complain of pain when they bend backward or when performing general activities.
Spondylolisthesis:
It usually means how a spondylosis injury progresses, but can also refer to something that happens at birth or is idiopathic. There will be a displacement of one vertebra over the vertebral body below it at the L5/S1 level, also known as a “step off” or “slip”. People may even be able to see a bump in the area where the slippage is occurring. The degree to which the vertebral body has slipped defines each of the five grades of this slippage:
- Grade 1: O-25%
- Grade 2: 25 to 50%
- Grade 3: 50-75%
- Grade 4: 75-100%
- Grade 5: > 100%
People with this condition may experience intermittent, localized pain during bending forward or backward at the affected area. As the vertebrae slide, it causes compression of the nerve root below, radicular pain down one or both legs, tense hamstrings, rare loss of bowel/bladder, and difficulty with walking or standing.
Treatment for “spondy”
Your doctor will look at your posture, range of motion, and overall health during a physical examination. They will also test your reflexes and feel your spine for muscle spasms and abnormal curves. Most of the time, conservative measures are taken to treat this condition. Medication for pain and inflammation may be beneficial. Additionally, consulting a physical therapist can assist with pain reduction and mobility enhancement. Stabilizing the area with a brace may also be helpful.
Steroid injections into the epidural space can also provide some relief. This combination of steroids and painkillers is injected into the affected area by your doctor to reduce discomfort and inflammation.
Surgery may be your last option if you are in severe pain or have not responded to conservative treatments. However, before undergoing surgery, why not try nonsurgical spinal decompression instead?
Nonsurgical Spinal Decompression
Nonsurgical spinal decompression can help alleviate pressure on the affected area and provide much-needed stabilization if the above-listed conservative treatments fail. All you have to do is lie down on a special table. A machine that gently stretches the spine and relieves pressure on the discs, joints, and connective tissues will be connected to the patient. The machine controls the level of tension, which our chiropractor sets to a predetermined level.
If your “spondy” pain is caused by problems with the spinal column and the structures that are connected to it, you should get the best treatment at every stage. After all, your daily functioning depends on the health of your spine and spinal cord. It’s best to go with reputed doctors who have treated spinal disorders for a long time.
ANSSI Wellness is willing to assist by providing non-surgical spinal decompression technology. We have your back. You can relax knowing that our team has been treating a variety of spine conditions successfully for years.
Don’t let problems with your “spondy” stop you from doing what you love! Contact us to set up a consultation and begin working with our medical professionals who care.
