What is bilateral spondylosis?

Spondylolysis is a breakdown or fracture of the narrow bridge between the upper and lower facets, called the pars interarticularis. It can occur on one side (unilateral) or both sides (bilateral) and at any level of the spine, but most often at the fourth or fifth lumbar vertebra (Fig. 2).

How does spondylosis feel?

Early signs and symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis might include pain and stiffness in the lower back and hips, especially in the morning and after periods of inactivity. Neck pain and fatigue also are common. Over time, symptoms might worsen, improve or stop at irregular intervals.

Can you recover from spondylosis?

The majority (85% to 90%) of young patients recover in three to six months with proper treatment. Recovery time can be longer and is different for each person. Spondylolisthesis (spon-dee-low-lis-thee-sis), or slipped vertebra, is a condition that involves the forward slippage of one vertebra over the one under it.

What are the symptoms of spondylosis?

Symptoms of spondylosis include localized pain in the area of spondylosis, usually in the back or neck. Spondylosis in the cervical spine (neck) can cause headache.

What is spondylolysis bilaterally?

When spondylolysis bilaterally in adults occurs, the bone responsible for protecting the spinal cord sustains a fracture as a result of either excessive strain or repeated strain. The area that is affected is called pars interarticularis, and so this condition is sometimes referred to as a pars defect.

Can you have lumbar spondylosis without any symptoms?

Many people with spondylosis on X-ray do not have any symptoms. In fact, lumbar spondylosis (spondylosis in the low back) is present in 27%-37% of people without symptoms. In some people, spondylosis causes back pain and neck pain due to nerve compression (pinched nerves).

What are the symptoms of cervical spondylosis and osteoarthritis?

As the disks dehydrate and shrink, signs of osteoarthritis develop, including bony projections along the edges of bones (bone spurs). Cervical spondylosis is very common and worsens with age. More than 85 percent of people older than age 60 are affected by cervical spondylosis. Most people experience no symptoms from these problems.