Spinal spondylosis is one of the most common degenerative conditions affecting the spine. Radiographic studies show cervical spondylotic changes in 25% of people aged under 40 years old, 50% over 40, and up to 85% over 60, most frequently at the C6–C7 and C5–C6 levels of the spine.
Lumbar spondylosis is equally widespread. Research has found osteophytes in more than 85% of adults aged 45–64, and MRI scans reveal disc protrusions in 80% and spinal stenosis in 20% of individuals over 60, even in individuals without pain.
Left untreated, spondylosis may progress to radiculopathy and even disability but with proper care, and treatment it is highly manageable.
What Is Spinal Spondylosis?
Spinal spondylosis refers to the degenerative changes that develop in the spine over time. These changes affect the intervertebral discs, vertebral bones, and facet joints, and they are most often linked to the natural aging process.
As the discs lose hydration and begin to thin, the space between vertebrae narrows. In response, the body forms bone spurs (osteophytes) along the edges of the vertebrae.
Together, thinning discs and bony overgrowth can reduce the space within the spinal canal and around the nerve roots.
Common symptoms include:
- Ongoing neck pain or back pain
- Stiffness, especially in the morning
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness if nerve roots are compressed
- Headaches in cases of cervical spondylosis
- Pain radiating into the arms or legs, also known as radiculopathy
For some people, spondylosis causes little to no discomfort. For others, these degenerative changes can become a daily source of pain.
Common Causes We See in Wheat Ridge, CO
Spondylosis is the result of gradual wear and tear in the spine, but certain factors accelerate that process or make the symptoms more severe. Here’s what we see often at our clinic:
Degenerative Disc Disease
With age, spinal discs lose hydration and elasticity. As they thin, the cushioning between vertebrae decreases, which increases pressure on the joints and bones. This loss of disc height is the foundation of spondylosis, since it sets off further degenerative changes like arthritis and bone spur formation.
Osteophyte (Bone Spur) Formation
When discs shrink, the body compensates by forming extra bone around the vertebrae. These osteophytes are the body’s attempt to stabilize the spine, but they often narrow the spinal canal and foramina. This narrowing increases the risk of nerve compression and radiculopathy.
Facet Joint Arthritis
The facet joints bear more stress when discs degenerate. As the cartilage in these joints wears down, arthritis develops. This adds to stiffness, pain with motion, and contributes to spinal instability, which in turn accelerates spondylosis.
Previous Spinal Injuries or Fractures
Past injuries can disrupt normal disc and joint function. A fractured vertebra or damaged disc often heals with structural changes, which alters spinal mechanics. These changes increase uneven stress on the spine, speeding up degeneration and the onset of spondylosis.
Genetics
Genetic factors influence disc quality, cartilage strength, and bone density. People with a family history of degenerative spine problems often experience earlier or more severe spondylosis because their discs and joints naturally break down more quickly.
Obesity
Extra body weight places greater mechanical stress on the spine, especially in the lower back. The additional load accelerates disc thinning and increases pressure on facet joints, both of which drive the degenerative cycle of spondylosis.
How We Treat Spinal Spondylosis at The Disc Chiropractic
At The Disc Chiropractic, I combine several non-surgical treatments that address both the structural and muscular changes caused by spondylosis.
Chiropractic Adjustments
Using my hands or with the aid of an instrument we deliver gentle yet precise thrust to the spinal joints. This reduces mechanical stress and irritation around the nerves. Patients often notice less stiffness and better flexibility after adjustments, especially in the cervical and lumbar regions most affected by spondylosis.
Spinal Decompression Therapy
With the Triton DTS system, spinal decompression gently stretches the spine to lower pressure inside the discs. This not only relieves nerve compression but also helps pull fluids and nutrients back into the discs, improving their hydration and slowing further degeneration.
Shockwave Therapy
The Intelect RPW 2 uses acoustic waves to breakdown calcified scar tissues and trigger points that cause muscle guarding around the spine. This increases blood circulation and helps relax the surrounding muscles and supports tissue healing.
Therapeutic Exercises & Postural Correction
Strengthening the core, spinal stabilizers, and postural muscles is key for long-term results. I teach patients specific exercises to correct posture and reduce abnormal loading on the spine. Better spinal support helps protect weakened discs and joints from further wear.
FAQs About Spinal Spondylosis
What’s the difference between spondylosis and arthritis of the spine?
Spondylosis is a broad term that describes degenerative changes in the spine, including disc thinning, bone spur formation, and joint wear. Arthritis of the spine is one part of this process. In short, arthritis is one component, while spondylosis includes all of the degenerative changes.
Can spinal spondylosis cause nerve pain?
Yes. As discs collapse and bone spurs form, the openings where nerves exit can narrow. This can pinch or irritate nerve roots, leading to numbness, tingling, weakness, or radiating pain in the arms or legs a condition called radiculopathy.
Does spondylosis always get worse with age?
Degenerative changes do tend to progress with age, but the rate and severity vary from person to person. Lifestyle factors such as posture, weight, activity level, and genetics play a major role. With proper care and exercise, many patients can slow the progression and manage symptoms effectively.
Can spinal decompression help with spondylosis?
Yes. Spinal decompression with the Triton DTS system gently reduces pressure inside the discs and creates more space around compressed nerves. For patients with disc thinning, bulging, or nerve irritation from spondylosis, decompression can reduce pain and improve mobility.
What is the recovery time for spinal spondylosis?
Recovery depends on the severity of degeneration and symptoms. Many patients notice improvement within 6 to 8 weeks of consistent treatment, especially when decompression, adjustments, and exercise are combined. More advanced cases may take several months of ongoing care to achieve lasting relief.
Is surgery always required for spondylosis?
No. Most patients do not need surgery for spinal spondylosis. Conservative treatments such as chiropractic care, decompression, and rehabilitation are effective for many. Surgery is usually only considered if severe nerve compression leads to loss of function or if non-surgical options fail to provide relief.
Don’t Wait Until Your Spondylosis Gets Worse
Our $97 New Patient Special is the first step. Patients across Wheat Ridge and Denver come to us because we provide clear answers and a safe, non-surgical path forward.
You’ll leave your first visit knowing whether spinal spondylosis is the cause of your pain and stiffness and exactly what it will take to improve your mobility and protect your spine for the long term.
If you’re ready to stop managing spondylosis and start solving it: