Spondylosis

Spondylolysis is a specific defect in the connection between vertebrae. This defect can lead to spondylolisthesis. Spondylolysis is a very common cause of low back pain.

Causes

Causes of spondylosis, or chronic degeneration of the intervertebral discs in the spine, are progressive spinal cord and nerve root compression. This gradual deterioration of the discs between the vertebrae is also referred to as Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD).

Symptoms

Many people have no symptoms and do not realize they have the condition. However, when symptoms occur, lower back pain is the most common. The pain often spreads across the lower back, and mayfeel like a muscle strain. The pain is generally worse with vigorous exercise or activity.

Possible Treatment – The Bonati Endoscopic-Assisted Laser Decompression Procedure

The procedure performed by Chief Orthopaedic Surgeon, Alfred O. Bonati M.D., or another Bonati Spine Institute surgeon is done from the back of the patient's neck to remove bone spurs and decompress enlarged ligaments that are compressing the spinal cord and nerves leading to the arms. Since the patient is awake during surgery, anesthesia risk is minimal and post-operative recovery is shortened. After surgery the patient is prescribed a short course of physical rehabilitation.