Spondylosis — In Plain Terms

Spondylosis is the gradual “wear and tear” that happens to your spine as you age — kind of like how the soles of your shoes wear down over time from walking.

Your spine is made up of small bones called vertebrae stacked on top of each other, with soft, cushiony discs in between them. Over the years, those discs can dry out and flatten, and the bones themselves can develop little bony growths called bone spurs — your body’s attempt to “patch” the worn areas. This is spondylosis.

Where can it happen?

• Your neck (cervical spondylosis)
• Your mid-back (thoracic — usually causes no symptoms)
• Your lower back (lumbar spondylosis — the most common and painful)

What causes it?

• Getting older is the #1 cause
• Family history (genetics)
• Old spinal injuries that speed up the process

What does it feel like?
Most people notice:

• Ongoing neck or back pain and stiffness
• Less ability to bend or turn freely
• Occasionally, numbness, tingling, or shooting pain down the arm or leg if a nerve gets pinched

The bottom line: Spondylosis is not a disease you “catch” — it’s simply your spine showing its age. Not everyone with spondylosis has pain, but when they do, treatments like chiropractic care can help manage symptoms, improve movement, and reduce discomfort.