Name of the Condition

• Other spondylosis with radiculopathy, lumbar region
• Technical term: Lumbar spondylosis with radiculopathy

Summary

• Lumbar spondylosis with radiculopathy is a condition where degenerative changes in the spine cause nerve root compression, resulting in pain and possible nerve dysfunction in the lower back and legs.

Causes

• Degenerative changes due to aging
• Osteophyte formation (bone spurs)
• Disc degeneration or herniation
• Spinal stenosis

Risk Factors

• Age, especially over 50
• Genetic predisposition
• Heavy labor or repetitive strain on the spine
• Obesity, which increases spinal stress
• Sedentary lifestyle

Symptoms

• Lower back pain
• Sciatica (radiating pain along the sciatic nerve)
• Numbness or tingling in the lower extremities
• Muscle weakness in the legs

Diagnosis

• Physical examination and patient history
• Imaging tests like MRI or CT scans to visualize spine and nerve roots
• Electromyography (EMG) to assess nerve function

Treatment Options

• Pain management with NSAIDs or analgesics
• Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility
• Epidural steroid injections to reduce inflammation
• Surgical interventions like laminectomy, in severe cases, to relieve nerve pressure

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Many patients manage symptoms effectively with conservative treatments
• Regular follow-ups to adjust treatment plans and monitor progression
• Surgery typically offers significant pain relief if required

Complications

• Chronic pain and disability
• Poor quality of life if untreated
• Potential progression to permanent nerve damage

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Regular exercise to maintain spinal health
• Weight management to reduce stress on the spine
• Ergonomic adjustments at work and home
• Avoiding heavy lifting or high-impact activities

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent lower back pain that does not improve with rest
• Significant muscle weakness or numbness in the legs
• Loss of bladder or bowel control, which may indicate cauda equina syndrome, a medical emergency

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
• Spine-health.com for patient education

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate differentiation between spondylosis with and without radiculopathy
• Verify lumbar region involvement and document appropriately
• Avoid common codic errors such as confusing lumbar spondylosis with other spinal regions