Spondylexarthrosis is a medical term that refers to degenerative joint disease of the spine. The spelling of this word can be broken down phonetically using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable is "spon", pronounced /spɒn/, followed by "dyl" pronounced /daɪl/. The third syllable is "ex", pronounced /ɛks/, and the fourth is "arthr", pronounced /ɑrθr/. The final syllable is "osis", pronounced /oʊsɪs/. Despite its complex spelling, spondylexarthrosis is a common condition, often caused by aging or wear and tear on the spine.
Spondylexarthrosis refers to a degenerative joint disease that primarily affects the articulation (joint connection) between two vertebrae in the spine called spondylosis. It is characterized by the gradual breakdown of the cartilage tissue located between the vertebral bodies, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the affected area.
The term "spondylexarthrosis" is derived from the Greek words "spondylos" (meaning vertebra) and "arthrosis" (meaning joint degeneration). As one ages, wear and tear on the spinal discs may occur, causing them to gradually wear down and narrow, ultimately leading to spondylexarthrosis. The condition can also be influenced by factors such as obesity, genetics, repetitive stress on the spine, and inadequate physical activity.
Common symptoms of spondylexarthrosis include localized pain and tenderness in the affected spinal segments, limited range of motion, stiffness upon waking or after prolonged periods of inactivity, and radiating pain or numbness into the arms or legs if nerve compression occurs. Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, and imaging tests such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or computed tomography (CT) scans.
Treatment for spondylexarthrosis aims to manage symptoms and slow down disease progression. Approaches may include lifestyle modifications (such as weight management and regular exercise) to reduce stress on the spine, physical therapy exercises to improve spinal flexibility and strength, pain medications, or in severe cases, surgical interventions like spinal fusion or disc replacement. Overall, the prognosis for spondylexarthrosis varies depending on the individual, but with appropriate management, symptoms can often be controlled, allowing individuals to maintain an
Dislocation of a vertebra.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "spondylexarthrosis" is derived from Greek roots. "Spondyl" means "vertebra", "ex" means "out" or "away from", and "arthrosis" refers to a joint. In medical terminology, "spondylexarthrosis" refers to a degenerative joint disease that affects the vertebrae.