Spondylosis is a condition that refers to the development of age-related arthritis that affects the spine. It is a nearly universal condition in those who reach advanced age, but it can also affect younger people. Spondylosis is another word for osteoarthritis of the spine, which is the result of normal “wear and tear” on both the soft structures and bones that make up the spine. Although any part of the spine may be affected, spondylosis is more frequently seen in the spine’s highest and lowest sections – the cervical (neck) and lumbar (low back) areas, respectively.

Most people with spondylosis experience no symptoms, but when symptoms do occur, they typically include pain and stiffness in the neck. Sometimes, spondylosis results in a narrowing of the spinal canal within the bones of the spine, which can cause the spinal cord or nerve roots to become pinched. This can lead to a variety of problems, including herniated disks and bone spurs.

A diagnosis of spondylosis is based primarily on information seen on images of the spine. Changes to the bones are most clearly seen on X-ray, while changes to the soft structures – including the disks that make up the spine – are best seen on MRI scans.

Risk factors for spondylosis include age, as it is caused by wear and tear on the components of the spine, and jobs that involve repetitive neck motions, awkward positioning, or a lot of overhead work.

Fortunately, most individuals with spondylosis will not experience symptoms and may never even realize that they have arthritis in their spines. For those who experience pain or neurologic changes due to nerve compression, safe and effective treatments are available. Typically, non-operative measures are effective in treating the symptoms.