Definition:

Arthritis characterized by erosion of articular cartilage of the lumbar spine, which becomes soft, frayed, and thinned with eburnation of suchondral bone and outgrowths of marginal osteophytes; pain and loss of function result.

Symptoms:

• Pain in the lumbar spine
• Loss of ROM in the lumbar spine
• Radiating pain into the legs
• Numbness in the legs
• Pain with lumbar extension

Causes:

• General wear and tear
• Age Related
• Disc degeneration
• Sudden fall or trauma
• Motor vehicle accident
• Genetic factors
• Repetitive stress

Treatment:

• ROM and stretching
• Core stabilization exercises
• Lower extremity strengthening
• Posture program