As you grow older, your body changes. Unfortunately, one change that is common in many people as they age is the degeneration of the discs between the vertebrae in your spine, which is known as spondylosis.
Spondylosis is painful because the discs are supposed to cushion the vertebrae from friction and shock. When they’re worn down, they cannot properly do their job, which leads to more wear and tear in the spine.
Four things you should do if you have spondylosis
It’s possible to treat spondylosis to help reduce pain and improve your quality of life, but there is no cure for the condition. You can help make things better for yourself by making some improvements in your lifestyle, including:
- Stretch and exercise — Improving the strength and flexibility of your back and core muscles provide better support for your spine. This removes some pressure off the spine, which can help reduce spondylosis pain.
- Reorganize your home — Objects in your home that are usually stored in high or low places may be more difficult to reach when you have spondylosis. Have someone help you organize your home so that the objects you use in everyday life are in easier-to-reach places.
- Quit smoking — Smoking causes all kinds of health issues, including back pain. Smoking can affect the development of fluids in the discs of your vertebrae, which makes your back pain worse when you have spondylosis.
- Change your sleep posture — People with spondylosis should sleep on a firm surface to keep their spine straight and even. Do not sleep on your front or use too many pillows that cause you to bend your neck, which puts pressure on the spine.
Visit the iRISE Spine and Joint Institute for spondylosis treatment
Our orthopedic specialists at the iRISE Spine and Joint Institute can provide services like chiropractic care, injections, or surgery to reduce pain and improve your range of motion when you have spondylosis. Visit one of our clinics to have our team members examine the condition of your spine and determine which treatment you will need. Contact us today to learn more about spondylosis treatment or to schedule an initial appointment.
